How Do We Promote School Climate? by Denise Potter

Private Box

bwainscott — 2020-09-22 20:55:44 UTC

We want our students to always feel comfortable and safe in the classroom and in the school. Having a box, that only you can open, and paper and pens, where the students can write down something they want to keep private but don't necessarily feel comfortable going to the teacher during class. Students can write down personal concerns and the teacher can get back to them at a private time.

Students Create

bwainscott — 2020-09-22 20:58:39 UTC

One of the things we saw in the class video last module was students creating the rules of the class and putting their handprint there. I like the idea of students creating their space that they feel like they are valued in. In addition hanging up the students work in the classroom or in the hallways, also adds to the idea their ideas are valuable and they are important.

Opportunity to Speak

bwainscott — 2020-09-22 21:02:03 UTC

From personal experience and from hearing other teachers, a lot of times teachers don't always feel supported in their school. I think providing at least an hour of time for teachers to say how they are struggling and how the school can better support them. We shouldn't always have the mindset that we have to suck it up, providing an opportunity for teachers to say where the school can step and make a change to make the teachers feel encouraged and backed.

Defined Time

bwainscott — 2020-09-22 21:06:54 UTC

Parents want to feel involved, regardless of how busy they are. I think if we as teachers just created a list of things that we need done and help with, parents can sign up where they have availability. Wether that is coming into class or bringing something home. Providing defined opportunities coupled with clear communication, can allow the teacher to feel supported as well as the parents to feel involved.

Outside Community!

bwainscott — 2020-09-22 21:11:03 UTC

Especially during the warmer months, making use of the space outside is a great way to get families and the community involved with the school. Something along the lines of a game night where different stations are set up to play whatever it is, or even doing a drive in movie in the parking lot. We want to be sure not to use too many resources that its a burden for the school, but providing time for both students and parents to connect would be fun. This can also be done on a class level.

Others Educate Us.

bwainscott — 2020-09-22 21:20:25 UTC

If we want to see our class or school as a team, then providing opportunities to educate would be a way to get families and community members involved as well as feel supported. If I have a student that is deaf or hard of hearing or speaks Chinese, allowing parents or community leaders come in and educate us about the ways we can support those student, would allow students to feel valued. Wether it is educating us about change or the causes of deafness or what changes we can make in our classrooms to allow those students to feel comfortable and confident, we need to make our students a priority. In order to do that we need to know how to support them.

Cultures

jhuerta23 — 2020-09-23 00:56:03 UTC

I think one way we could build a positive school community is by educating students and parents about different cultures around the world. We could do this by having research assignments on different cultures and communities. For parents, we could display the work students did on different cultures. This way the parents and the students can have an open discussion about celebrating different cultures and communities together.

Pictures

jhuerta23 — 2020-09-23 01:02:22 UTC

I work as a pre-k teacher. In my classroom, we have pictures of student work, drawing, and awards up with their picture next to them. Adults in the workforce love to be appreciated and awarded for their work so children should also be shown appreciation and praise as well. I have learned that children learn better when they are fed positivity and praise. They are more likely to want to learn more and it helps boost their confidence when they are recognized for the hard work they put in!

Journal

jhuerta23 — 2020-09-23 01:05:26 UTC

For my classroom, I would assign each student a journal. I would not count this as a grade because it is a journal where students can express themselves freely without any concern for grammar and feeling like they will be judged based on a grade. The students can draw, write poems, diaries, and more. This journal is whatever they choose to do with it. I want my kids to know they are in an safe place where they can speak their minds without any backlash.

Families

jhuerta23 — 2020-09-23 01:09:51 UTC

In my pre-k classroom, we have pictures students with their families. I have this up in my class so that students can see that everyone comes from a different family. This show cases acceptance of different backgrounds and diversity. I want the parents to feel welcomed and involved in my classroom. I want them to know that I care about their child as well. Parents and teachers are NOT enemies of one another. We all love these kids and we need to remember that everyone has the same goal in mind which is that we all want what is best for their child.

Safe Place

jhuerta23 — 2020-09-23 01:13:38 UTC

Children have a safe place to be able to speak their minds. I want the same thing for teachers as well. I want teachers to be able to come together with their administration and be able to voice their concerns and frustrations. I feel that a lot of teachers quit because their are not heard. Teachers play a very important role in the community and they should feel that they have a safe haven as well. For example, they could have a teachers only meeting, chat, or even an online community solely dedicated to and for teachers.

Parties

jhuerta23 — 2020-09-23 01:21:19 UTC

Growing up, I loved when my parents would come to my school to play games with me, watch movies with me, or simply spend time with me by coming with me to the book fairs. I especially loved it when we would have field days outside in the summers.

In my experience as a pre-k teachers, kids love it when the parents come to the Christmas, Valentine's, Halloween, and Thanksgiving parties. These family functions really connect the students with their parents and teachers get to learn more about families! It is really impactful when teachers and parents talk to each other outside of parent/teacher conferences.

Community Projects

gramirez111 — 2020-09-23 01:25:20 UTC

I think a great way to promote team building with school/ and or community could be informing kids about community issues and integrating that into the content. For example, recycling or cleaning up parks the topic can be covered in class. Then you can help students organize with parent permission an after school project to help the community!

Accept help form the Kids!

gramirez111 — 2020-09-23 01:28:02 UTC

When decorating the physical environment kids can have a say. Allowing kids to give their opinion will promote the physical environment climate something as simple as letting them choose a color theme or putting their picture on their locker. I have seen a lot of teacher allow kids to decorate their locker name tags it adds personalization that there are kids here! Also when doing word walls and such allow the kids to do them with you, by allowing them to hang up the things for you. It gets them excited!

Cozy Corner

gramirez111 — 2020-09-23 01:30:44 UTC

At one of my observations I have seen teachers create comfy corners instead of time outs. As for children often times act-out because they are feeling emotional. Therefore this allows the kid to feel comfort with feelings posters, pillows, soft things that nurture the students. This can promote emotional stability and create a secure environment It gives them a safe place!

Show you care

gramirez111 — 2020-09-23 01:35:27 UTC

A way to promote that you are a nurturing teacher is showing you care outside of your classroom. Something as simple as checking in like "how are you doing in other classes" or "how are things at home?" Teachers play a big role in education but the good teachers care outside of class. They care about the student.

Communication and Opportunities

gramirez111 — 2020-09-23 01:38:40 UTC

Constantly reaching out to parents about events or opportunities to be involved is a great idea. Having a routine check-in on their kids progress is always appreciated. Having parent nights to allow students and kids to come in and have bonding time with the teacher is a great example I saw one of my cousins teachers do.

Get to Know Your Staff Members as well as Students

ksmith771 — 2020-09-23 01:41:00 UTC

One way that a teacher can help with team building with the school or school community is by getting to really know your co-workers and other staff members. Often times games and team building activities are a way that school districts might do this. I know these can sometimes feel a little socially awkward, but they really are beneficial in breaking the ice and getting to know others better. It is incredibly important to get to know your students well, but I feel like it is just as important to know your staff, which will in turn help build a better school community.

Fundraisers

gramirez111 — 2020-09-23 01:44:15 UTC

Opportunities for events where the school comes together to raise money for a good cause! I always loved signing up for jump rope for heart!

Get Creative!

ksmith771 — 2020-09-23 01:45:00 UTC

The physical environment of a classroom can play a bigger role in class climate than I think a lot of people realize. As an educator, you want your students to feel comfortable and enjoy being in your class as much as possible as there will be a lot of time spent together in the classroom. It is important to create a physical layout that is conducive to learning. This can be done by creating enough space for activities, or special circumstances. For example, if there are students who may be in a wheel chair or require extra room for specific needs. Another way to improve the physical environment is to add pictures, posters, decorations, and other visual and educational elements to engage students. I know that sort of thing starts to diminish as students get older and at the high school level, but a classroom is kind of like a “home.” Rarely to people enjoy being in the same four walls, especially if they are bare and blank, so get creative!

Safety First

ksmith771 — 2020-09-23 01:46:32 UTC

A few ways to ensure a student’s safety is by following the correct practices and procedures for things like fire drills, lockdowns, and active shooter scenarios. Although these can seem like obvious things to do, you just never know when an emergency might arise. It is important to be prepared as these policies have been put in place for a reason. Aside from safety and security drills, I also think that the creating a respectful environment among students is worth mentioning because it can also tie into security. If students are treated kindly and feel welcome by both the teacher and their peers, that will also contribute to the safety that a student feels within the classroom.

Be There for Students

ksmith771 — 2020-09-23 01:48:08 UTC

Getting to know your students is of paramount importance. When a teacher knows their students well such as what their interests are, their culture, the kind of home life they have, etc. then they are better equipped to serve the student’s needs. A nurturing teacher is essentially there for a student when they need it. Whether that simply be by providing a listening ear, or by making time to give feedback on a particular assignment. A nurturing teacher is one that is ready and willing to be there for their students.

Class Website

ksmith771 — 2020-09-23 01:49:57 UTC

One example that was mentioned in Tracy Garrett’s Effective Classroom Management book that I liked was the incorporation of a class website or newsletter. Parents and students may not always have the opportunity to discuss school or what they are doing and learning. I think a class website or newsletter to document and record student activities and achievements is a good way to keep parents in the loop. Another way to include parents is by sending positive notes and e-mails throughout the school year. This is especially important since you want to make the first interaction with parents an encouraging and optimistic one.

Events

ksmith771 — 2020-09-23 01:51:25 UTC

There are numerous school-events and activities that students can be involved in, especially at the secondary level. I feel that it can really make a difference when teachers stay informed on extra-curricular activities or attend things like sporting events. Just posting sports or UIL schedules, discussing them in class, or encouraging students to be involved can helps create a sense of school-wide community. Having school spirit and being proud of your students, mascot, and overall school district is another way to encourage those around you to do the same.

Snack Box

cpeterson710 — 2020-09-23 02:55:49 UTC

I know this is something we haven't covered as a class but something I plan to do in my future classroom is have a snack box. I know personally that when hunger strikes its all I can think about it, everything else ceases to function. I don't want any of my student distracted by hunger! I believe this ties into class climate by them seeing me as someone that is more than a teacher but someone that cares about their general well being, thus making them more comfortable in my class and more willing to learn.

Decorating with the students!

cpeterson710 — 2020-09-23 03:00:26 UTC

When I am I start my classroom I plan to decorate/set it up with my students. I want them to have a say in what is on the walls. For example, I will propose a word wall to the class and explain the benefits that they have etc. They can then take this idea and agree with it or offer more to add to it, or potentially have a better idea. I want them to help me build a welcoming class and have a say in how they learn!

Nicole Bond

2020-09-23 15:14:32 UTC

Team Building: A way for teacher teams to team build is to get to know one another and build relationships with each other. I know of teacher teams who like to get together once a month or so outside of the school setting. This enhances their relationship and helps them get to know one another. I think that it's important for teacher teams to talk to each other about things other than just school/work.

In the school setting, the school admin can help with team building by doing fun games and activities that enhance communication, team work, name recognition, etc.

Nicole Bond

2020-09-23 15:19:40 UTC

The physical environment is important, it is a way to make students feel safe, welcome, and comfortable in their learning environment. A way to do this is to make sure that the classroom represents all the diverse students in the classroom (race, culture, etc.).

Nicole Bond

2020-09-23 15:36:45 UTC

A safe and secure environment includes multiple ways for students to express their feelings, emotions, concerns, etc. Not every student will feel comfortable going to the teacher to express these things. The teacher should have multiple modes of students being able to express and communicate these things. Not one way will work for every student. Some ideas are teacher mail (include paper and pencil next to the mail box), communication journal, postcard box, questions/comment jar, etc.

Nicole Bond

2020-09-23 15:47:51 UTC

I think that being a nurturing teacher means having and building relationships with your students. Be there for them, listen to them, care for them, treat them with respect, etc. Letting them know they are important! This will go a long way with the students.

Nicole Bond

2020-09-23 15:50:38 UTC

Create opportunities for the parents to be involved and invited into the classroom. Such opportunities can be for them to come in and read to the students, monitor classroom activities, visit during lunch time, etc. Another way is by communication. Communication is crucial. Letters sent home, notes, classroom website/blog, communication journal, etc. These are all ways to keep communication flowing from the classroom to the parent to allow them to know whats happening in the classroom.

Lauren Woodall

lwoodall11 — 2020-09-23 18:29:05 UTC

I think a great way to get the school community together as well as the teachers is to host an after school program. Maybe twice a month hold a little get together for the students to play games or do crafts together. It would allow the students to get to know other students and for parents to get to know each other.

Lauren Woodall

lwoodall11 — 2020-09-23 18:33:44 UTC

To make the classroom fun and different, make the seating arrangements fun. Bring in fun chairs for the students to sit in and let the students bring in maybe a pillow or stuffed animal or picture they like and would like to keep in the classroom. If its a pillow then put it in the reading center or a picture then make a big photo album bulletin board of all the students pictures. Also, I loved when my teachers used to play music in the background so ask the students what songs they like and create a class playlist together.

Lauren Woodall

lwoodall11 — 2020-09-23 18:38:40 UTC

To help the kids feel safe and secure, maybe create a "safety book" at the beginning of the school year that goes over what you would do in a situation. Have students draw pictures of what to do and make it a collection for them to look at. Also, this could be used to discuss class rules and how to act around each other. Make it a class discussion and let the students talk about how to be kind and what they should do if they don't feel safe or comfortable.

Jennifer Walling

2020-09-23 18:40:00 UTC

Back when I was in high school we had an event called the Big Event and we would get on buses and go around the community and help clean it up! We would mow yards and trim trees and clean up flower beds! I feel this is a great way for the community to associate with the schools!

Jennifer Walling

2020-09-23 18:42:29 UTC

A great way to introduce a happy and inviting physical environment is to do a classroom climate activity! Those can open people up and get people more comfortable with one another.

Jennifer Walling

2020-09-23 18:44:10 UTC

Safety and Security is critical in a classroom. if students don't feel safe they won't interact and won't participate. One way is to establish trust with all your students and make sure they know they can come to you and talk.

Jennifer Walling

2020-09-23 18:45:56 UTC

There is a fine line to be walked between teacher, and friend. But when done right a nurturing teacher is one who students will come to when they feel they can't trust anyone else. One way I would do this is I would just make sure my students know they are important.

Jennifer Walling

2020-09-23 18:48:40 UTC

Parents involve in the classroom should be allowed but should not be over stepping. Open-houses is a time where teachers get to introduce themselves and talk about what a joy their students are in class. And feel their should also be career days when students get to bring parents in and they can tell the class what their parent does.

Jennifer Walling

2020-09-23 18:51:05 UTC

I feel the best way to promote a school-wide community is to invite everyone to games! Football, basketball, tennis, soccer, volleyball, just everything! this way the community is involved and students feel loved and supported by not just their parents!

Lexi Roberts

2020-09-23 19:06:40 UTC

Team Building: I think that team building is very important within a school setting. It allows the students, teachers, administrators, parents, etc. to get to know one another and not be such a stranger. One way that I think would work as an "ice breaker" in a school setting/community would be to hold an after school party at the end of each six weeks! This after school party could take place outside of the school, in the gymnasium, or even at the city park. This would allow everyone to get together, and have some fun.

Lexi Roberts

2020-09-23 19:10:46 UTC

Physical Environment: The physical environment allows students to feel safe and welcomed within their classroom/school. A classroom climate activity would help accomplish a fun and engaging physical environment! A classroom/school also needs to be able to welcome a vast diversity of students.

Lexi Roberts

2020-09-23 19:15:17 UTC

Safe and Secure Environment: All students need to feel safe and secure in their school and classroom! This is critical to their learning. If the students do not feel safe and secure, then they are not going to participate in school activities. Show the students that you are there for them, and be someone that they can talk to.

Stephanie Westall

2020-09-23 21:54:48 UTC

I think a way to help foster in staff/stakeholder community climate is to maybe at the start of the year have a night where the teachers and faculty participate in a bazaar where local companies can donate but also the teachers can bring things in and help raise money that would go back into the school. This time together and the different things the teachers bring can help strike up conversations and make connections while also benefiting the school.

Stephanie Westall

2020-09-23 21:59:41 UTC

I think a good way to promote school climate through the physical environment is decorate your door so the students immediately see your name and can differentiate your classroom, making it like a gateway to a new environment seperate from the hustle and bustle of the hallways.

Stephanie Westall

2020-09-23 23:58:15 UTC

To help foster a safe and secure climate, I think I would instill a practice of every time there is a drill, afterwards I will give them some decompression time to write or read or chat quietly to restore a sense of comfort.

Stephanie Westall

2020-09-24 00:01:49 UTC

I think something that can help the students see you as a nurturing teacher might be to have maybe ten minutes at the end of class every friday for the students to share something positive. It might be that they made a good grade or just got a dog or they're excited to play in the basketball game tomorrow night, but just having that time to stop and listen to what these kids have to say and make it a positive environment so they feel heard and excited.

Stephanie Westall

2020-09-24 00:06:39 UTC

I think having a class website is a perfect platform to help parents feel more connected, but I think more so than just having news and updates about the class, but also invitations for the parents to come to school-wide events, like a family fun night or a math games night or even a football game, which could help the parent feel more involved in their child's school experience.

Stephanie Westall

2020-09-24 00:09:47 UTC

I think something that can really bring the school together is having community service events where students, teachers, and parents can donate time, money, food, or whatever to help community outreach, which in turn will help solidify the relationship with the school and the community, helping school pride.

Lexi Roberts

2020-09-24 02:35:36 UTC

Nurturing Teacher: Be someone who the students can rely on. Students may not have the best home lives, so school should be a safe and nurturing place for them to look to. Make sure each student knows that they are cared for and that you are someone that they can come to with anything.

Lexi Roberts

2020-09-24 02:42:50 UTC

Parent-Involved Classroom: Parents should be involved within the classroom. However, they should not overstep the teacher. Allow the parents to sign up to help with classroom parties, volunteer with PTO, visit their child during lunch/recess, etc. Most of the time, students like when their parents are welcomed into their school. Another parent-involved activity is "open house." This is when the students are able to bring their parents, and/or family members, to look at their school work and what they have accomplished so far. As a teacher, communication with parents/guardians is very important! Ways to communicate include: sending home letters, making newsletters, sending out emails, making a phone call, etc.

Real World Curriculum

drobinson181 — 2020-09-24 12:12:42 UTC

A good way to promote team building with school and community is to apply knowledge learned in class to the community. Learning about interest and loans? Community field trip to bank or even a real estate agent would be great real world application of learned content. This gets students to make bonds in their community that will service them well after graduation.

Atypical Physical Environment

drobinson181 — 2020-09-24 12:17:28 UTC

Creating a positive physical environment for your students can be done by not having the typical classroom set up. Bring in couches, bean bags, ect. Let students be able to choose their physical learning environment. As teachers we know not all students learn in same manner. For those students who learn better laying down or in more comfortable positions they will greatly appreciate your classroom.

Appropriate Memes

drobinson181 — 2020-09-24 12:20:45 UTC

My plan to foster a safe and secure environment is to relate to me students. I like to think i am a funny individual. Who says memes and learning cannot go hand in hand. I believe joking around a bit during the lesson ensures students are engaged and relaxed. Worst Case scenario, your students do not find you to be a comedian but at the end of the day their focus was on you and the lesson not their phones.

Check-in Board

drobinson181 — 2020-09-24 12:26:19 UTC

I have always wanted to create a check-in board for my future classroom. Having just a small space of wall dedicated to students to be able to anonymously communicate with the teacher about how well they are feeling. Suffering from depression myself there were days i was excited to learn and other days i was quiet and moody but i was still learning. I know when i was a student i appreciated my teachers checking on me but it drew unwanted attention to me. Check-in board gives you the opportunity to see how students are doing and if continues set up a conference with student to ensure they are healthy and happy.

Inside Look

drobinson181 — 2020-09-24 12:31:30 UTC

Currently i am a preschool teacher and i have learned my parents LOVE when i send pictures home of their kids friends or activities they are mastering. However in a 7-12 classroom that may not be the most appropriate or feasible. Using a classroom website ( if allowed by ISD) or classroom newsletter. I know as a student when my parents asked me how was school my answer was mainly fine or good. Having this communication with parents will either promote parents to be more involved in classroom or let them have the chance to feel like they are involved in the classroom.

Attending Events

drobinson181 — 2020-09-24 12:35:13 UTC

Being present at school-wide events is the easiest way to promote a positive school-wide community. I remember when Professor Gabriel would come to all of our games and plays and would be present and cheering students on. My teammate did not have Mrs. Gabriel for math but from seeing her present in our events, she thought this was the coolest teacher and my teammate ended up going to tutorials with Gabriel... not even a teacher to my teammate during the day but Gabriel was still avilable for all.

2020-09-24 23:14:59 UTC

Being involved in your students' life outside of the classroom such as extracurriculars shows your students that you are more than a teacher in the class, it shows you have a life outside of school and you're human too, which then results in better student-teacher relationships. For elementary this can mean attending choir/ music class concerts, sports, open house, and any other activities the school puts on. Making sure you attend and show your face to meet and support is really important.

I think that it is very important for teachers to get to know one another and be comfortable with each other. It is super important specially for new teachers to feel like the have the support and wisdom of other teachers to keep them going in the right path. I think teacher can get together to work on lesson plans or just even get coffee together as a team building exercise.

pvazquez11 — 2020-09-25 04:11:41 UTC

Feeling comfortable

pvazquez11 — 2020-09-25 04:19:59 UTC

It is super important that we set in our classroom in a way that is efficient and comfortable for students. We want students to enjoy the space that they will be using to create and learn in. In an earlier module I saw a picture of students reading books in what looked like a fort made out of a sheet. I thought this was a really good idea because students got to relax and enjoy a good book while comfortable in their fort.

Safety is not a game but we can have fun while learning.

pvazquez11 — 2020-09-25 04:23:41 UTC

I think it is super important for students to be aware of the safety procedures they should follow in case of an emergency. From what I remember schools are pretty good about practicing fire drills but we should do more as teachers. I think that we should take the time to practice other emergency drills. I think it is a good idea to practice drills in the form of a game. For example playing jeopardy while going over the procedures for fire, tornado, or active shooter drills.

Pizza and a movie

pvazquez11 — 2020-09-25 04:28:57 UTC

I can imagine that teacher's can find themselves some days overwhelmingly stressed out. This is why I think that as teachers we should be consistently checking our mental state to make sure we are at our best to teach our students. A great way that I can think of to unwind and relax is by watching a movie and eating something delicious such as pizza. I think it would be really cool for teachers to take the time out of their busy week to just breath and relax.

keeping parents in the loop

pvazquez11 — 2020-09-25 04:32:56 UTC

I think it is really important for teachers to keep parents in the loop so they know exactly were their kids are academically. I think that the more parents know the better they are able to help bring their kids to the academic level we want them to be at. A way in which we can do this is by sending out some personalized emails every so often to parents letting them know some of the positive things their kids are up to. By doing this we open the door for parents to reach out to us and want to get involved.

Fund raisers

pvazquez11 — 2020-09-25 04:38:29 UTC

I think that a good way to get the community involved in the school is by doing fund raisers. I feel like people usually go to fund raisers because they know that any money being raised is going toward the children. Teachers and staff can also take this opportunity to share some information about the school with the community so that everyone is aware of everything the school has going on.

2020-09-25 14:11:06 UTC

Team Building in school with students, teachers, administrators, etc is a major part in the schools climate. Just how the students have tam building activities like a name activity, staff can have a similar activity. Or staff can have monthly "meets" to get to know each other. This can be short and casual, have some snacks or coffee just to get to know their co-workers. This will create relationships and gain more support from their peers.
- Katherine Becerra

2020-09-25 14:20:17 UTC

A major factor in school climate is making the student feel safe and comfortable. This ties in with the physical environment of a classroom. There are numerous ideas, some would be having a theme for the class that the students can help pick, decorating the door, hanging up the students work, having a birthday board, or fun stations.
-Katherine Becerra

2020-09-25 14:24:59 UTC

A student needs to have a safe and secure environment. To promote this I would reassure my students I am someone their to help and listen to them. Taking drills seriously and having the students reflect on the drills. Also, taking the students concerns in consideration and problem-solving to figure out how to make that issue better.
-Katherine Becerra

2020-09-25 14:30:46 UTC

Nurturing teachers play huge a role in school climate. An idea, would be to have individual check-ins or maybe a wall where the students can write how they are feeling or anything they want to share. In previous dance classes, when students are stressed or overwhelmed we have a meditation or a body day's and the teacher would walk around and just check-in. Also, having an open door policy!
-Katherine Becerra

2020-09-25 15:07:39 UTC

There are numerous ways to have a parent-involved classroom. From sending emails to having parent volunteer. For instance, field day at school is a great time to get parent volunteers to come out! Having an open house is great too, it gives a chance for the parent(s) to come and explore the school and see what their child has accomplished and get to know the teacher.
-Katherine Becerra

2020-09-25 15:13:12 UTC

Going to or encouraging others to attend community events can promote school-wide communities. From going to a dance spring show, or basketball games, or a fundraiser is a great start! I remember my middle school had a huge fundraiser that was like a festival. We had games, food, raffles, bouncy houses, etc. Also, local restaurants and families from the community offered to cook or provide food! It was a fun and great way to get everyone involved.
-Katherine Becerra

Teacher bingo

2020-09-25 17:23:53 UTC

I think a great team building idea for teachers/staff would be in a game of bingo. This bingo game would be different, before the school year starts the principal would have all the teachers walk around the school and enter each classroom and observe the classroom setup/items in the classroom. Then, the principle will have the teachers play a round of bingo with pictures of items from the each teachers classroom. This activity is great because the teachers will get to know each other, familiarize themselves with other teachers classrooms, discuss each others classroom, and find support within each other. There might be an idea or something neat they found in another classroom, and with this activity it allows for teachers to come together, transfer ideas, and build a team.- jessyca guzman

A great way to promote a inclusive and prideful physical environment would be to have the students bring in an item that represents them and/or their family to display in the classroom. Every time the student walks into classroom or the parents, they will feel included and to important to the school and the teacher.

2020-09-25 18:04:28 UTC

-Jessyca Guzman

There is so much craziness in the world and one thing we can do as future teachers is have a safe and secure environment. This means we have all protocols set and have practiced all the drills. Every year students come in and know this- we practice for different types of disasters, but how we as teachers create a safe and secure environment emotionally for our students? One way could be having a special notes in their cubbies in which they can fill out and place in a special spot on the teachers desk. The note will have a meter on how the student is feeling, a section to write any concerns or problems they are having, or even to write something positive. This is a great way for students to talk about what they are going through without other students around. It'll help students feel safe and secure to go to the teacher and let them know what is going on with them.

2020-09-25 18:31:15 UTC

-jessyca guzman

I always loved when my teachers had snacks for us in class, but for the whole class not just one specific student, or student of the week. It made us all feel included and loved. I still think back about those teachers and think "wow I really loved those teachers when I was a kid". In many cultures offering food is like making you feel welcomed. It's so appreciated and I don't think a lot of teachers know that. It is custom to offer someone food in a Hispanic household, it is a way of welcoming and caring for the guest. Offering snacks to the students and having a snack time with them as a treat will make them feel loved and comfortable in the classroom, especially if the student has limited access to food. -jessyca guzman

2020-09-25 19:06:19 UTC

2020-09-26 05:46:28 UTC

Alexis Lozoria

2020-09-26 05:52:45 UTC

If students have assigned cubicles, I think it would be a great idea to give them the opportunity to decorate and personalize their area. Students are putting their own personal touch on a area that they use daily.

Alexis Lozoria

2020-09-26 05:58:42 UTC

An idea to ensure that students have a safe and secure environment is to give the students a journal in which they will write/draw about how they are feeling or want the teacher to know. This will be done before the beginning of class so that the teacher can look at throughout the day. The students will write/draw again a second time about how they feel or want the teacher to know before they are dismissed to go home. I believe trust plays a huge role with teachers and students therefore it is very important to be empathetic and have good intentions with your students.

Alexis Lozoria

2020-09-26 06:08:10 UTC

Being a nurturing teacher one must be kind, patient and have empathy towards his/her students.

Alexis Lozoria

2020-09-26 06:10:01 UTC

I think creating a class website or page is a great way to get parents involved in the classroom. One can send or post pictures on the website or page to show parents what the students are working on. Its 2020!

Alexis Lozoria

2020-09-26 06:13:45 UTC

Events for sure would be a great way to promote school wide communities! Its all about participation and attending these events!

Sarah Honza: "Jump In, Jump Out"

2020-09-26 15:31:55 UTC

The school staff can do this activity to promote team building. They will stand in a circle and hold hands. They will be expected to say and do the commands of the leader in the activity. The commands are either to jump in, to jump right, to jump left, or to jump back. Everyone must hold hands and move in the appropriate direction each time. This activity requires everyone to listen and perform. In order to be successful, they have to work together. To make the activity more difficult, the leader can tell the group to "say what I say, do the opposite of what I say" or "say the opposite of what I say, do what I say." This level of difficulty requires more critical thinking skills to successfully complete the task.

Sarah Honza

2020-09-26 15:48:24 UTC

The classroom should be setup to where students can move from space to space with ease. The tables can be grouped and in a location where the teacher can scan the room at all times. The classroom should also be aesthetically appealing to help students feel a sense of warmth and comfort. The materials also need to be diverse. This will make the classroom feel welcoming, so students feel motivated to learn.

Sarah Honza

2020-09-26 16:01:13 UTC

An important way to ensure students feel safe in the classroom is creating consistency within the classroom. Each day, the class follows a consistent schedule and set of routines, which includes knowing the cues to move from one activity to the next. In addition, I find it important to go over their "kindness contract" each day. This includes the expected behaviors and students can even give examples of kind gestures they've done or someone's done for them since the previous day. This not only shows that students know the rules, but that they understand them and apply them to their lives. If their is a policy in place that promotes kindness, then students may feel more emotionally safe in the classroom. It can also be beneficial to include safety precautions into each lesson, depending on the materials being used.

Sarah Honza

2020-09-26 16:03:55 UTC

To be a nurturing teacher is to cultivate a positive bond with each individual student. If students feel they can trust their teachers, then they will feel safe in their classroom environment. To establish this trust, we can gear activities to their interests, show interest in their hobbies (in/outside of school), and encourage writing journals as another form of communication. The writing journal could be a mode of communication. Sometimes, students may be able to write what they're feeling, rather than saying it. By giving them an option to freely write what they want, they won't feel judged, but feel the teacher genuinely cares about their feelings and day-to-day lives. In addition, writing back to students will let them know their voices are being heard. Also, in order to nurture other teachers, it's important to give them compliments. Sometimes, teachers need to hear words of affirmation to remind them of how hard they work and the difference they are making in the lives around them.

Sarah Honza

2020-09-26 16:17:08 UTC

I would love to create newsletters, as well as a section in the classroom where parents can come anytime to participate. At the beginning of the year, I would also like to have a conference with each parent to see if they could participate in a classroom discussion or activity. Parents could share characteristics about their jobs, cultures, languages, hobbies, etc. The diversity and resources each parent brings would promote a multicultural classroom. Students would have the opportunity to learn from so many different individuals with the involvement of parents and families.

Sarah Honza

2020-09-26 16:20:52 UTC

Growing up, I loved the school-wide events. These included school performances, fundraisers for various nonprofit organizations, fairs, field days, father/daughter dances, etc. I especially loved seeing my teachers at these events. Honestly, it was almost an expectation to see them there. These events are an opportunity to interact with students and their families on an informal level. Teacher and parent involvement are what makes these events possible. The stronger connection between the two, the more opportunities there will be available to students. Additionally, I think it would be effective to help students create their own events or projects for the school. This could be creating a garden, a fundraiser to buy a classroom pet a new cage, etc. This type of collaborative activity will bring the community together, while cultivating student's learning experience.

Desert Island- Julieta Gallardo

2020-09-26 16:35:59 UTC

This activity is to create a good team work environment among teachers and staff. Steps:
1. Gather the teachers and staff together
2. Tell them that each person has to think in just one item they would bring with them to a desert island. They must choose one object and do not share their choice. Once everyone has decided
3. Divide into teams of 3 - 4 members
4. Have them each team work together how to use these four items to scape or survive the desert island.
5. The most creative team wins.
https://www.weareteachers.com/team-building-activities/

Classroom is a second home - Julieta Gallardo

2020-09-26 16:55:20 UTC

The physical environment is crucial for students to feel welcomed and happy. It should promote learning, acceptance, tolerance, and safety. Materials should be accessible and ready for students to use. Decoration should be chosen carefully to avoid stereotyping or negative messages. At the same time it shouldn't be distractive.

Safe & Secure Classroom - Julieta Gallardo

2020-09-26 16:58:08 UTC

I could create a song with the safety rules for my classroom. It can include procedures, and interaction rules. I could create the song using piggy-back lyrics of a nursery song. I think it can be a fun and catchy way for students to be aware of rules and procedures that help them to stay safe.

How Much It Take to Share Your Thoughts - Julieta Gallardo

2020-09-26 17:02:16 UTC

I think it's very important that teachers feel listened, nurtured, and valued. So, this activity should help. Have the teachers come together, one person should bring one roll of toilet paper. Pass the roll around and tell them to get enough toilet paper to share their thoughts. Once everyone has a piece, ask somebody to begin by sharing one thought, concern, or comment per square of toilet paper. The game ends when everyone has been heard. Let the teachers know that comments and possible solutions are welcomed.

Parent-Teacher get together - Julieta Gallardo

2020-09-26 17:11:03 UTC

This activity can be done outside the school or in the classroom. Arrange a meeting time with the parents that is convenient for them. Sometimes, evening meetings can be demanding for working parents. Therefore, a time during the weekend might work. During this meeting, play a game with parents/families. The beach ball game can be a good way of getting to know the families of the students in an informal and fun way.

Library Activities - Julieta Gallardo

2020-09-26 17:17:15 UTC

I personally love libraries and I also think that these spaces are full with activities that can bring families and communities together. Another way is to have a big garage sale. Parents can be asked to participate by donating one or two items they don't want anymore. Promote the garage sale with families and the school's surrounding community. This activity can bring families and communities together (and some funds for the school also).

Team Building

ecampbell42 — 2020-09-26 20:07:10 UTC

One specific example of team building within the school that I have seen recently is having some kind of fun running joke, activity, or program throughout the faculty/school that goes on throughout the year. A couple of ways this can be seen is making "Super Star" nominations anonymously to acknowledge something positive a teacher has been seen doing. Another way I have seen this done is during staff developments, each teacher was given one of their school dollars and throughout the day they would keep an eye out for someone doing something or saying one of the banned words so they could steal their dollar; at the end of the day there were incentives the teachers could buy with the dollars they collected.

Student-Lead

ecampbell42 — 2020-09-26 20:10:49 UTC

I really like the idea of brainstorming as a class/school to come up with a theme and then decorating as a group. My senior year of high school, the school's theme was video games and each hallway had a specific game they had to theme their hallway around. In my science class, we decorated the entire hallway like a Super Mario Bros level, and at the end of the decoration period there was a prize for the best decorated hall.

Teacher-Student Communication

ecampbell42 — 2020-09-26 20:12:52 UTC

I learned this technique from one of my high school teachers and I plan to implement it in my own classes. In my math class, we had math journals that we completed notes and assignments in. The right hand side was for the work we were doing, and the left hand side was for whatever we wanted to do. Our teacher told us we could doodle, write, draw, do whatever we wanted to that side, including use it to tell him something we thought he should know. I love this idea because the notebooks are going to be collected anyway, so it is a completely private way for students to communicate with the teacher as needed without feeling awkward or judged.

Monthly Events

kbryant151 — 2020-09-26 20:44:43 UTC

In my life skills classroom, I would host monthly showoffs for my students to perform in front of the school and their families. From what I have observed so far, majority of students connect with the specials activities such as art or music. I would have the students in my class word on an art project or music production throughout the month. Then, I would host a showcase event on the last Thursday of every month. This would be during the school day, so the entire school would be invited along with the students' families.

Taking Care of Teachers

ecampbell42 — 2020-09-26 22:13:35 UTC

I've often heard that teachers and other workers in the Early Childhood setting have one of the highest rates of burnout than any other profession. I used to work at a high-end private early childhood center that was struggling to retain teachers for an entire year, let alone from year to year. As an insider at this location and having gone through EDUC courses such as this one, I can see clearly that this was due to a lack of teacher nurturing. I often was on the receiving end of our teachers ranting about how they were not well taken care of and how all management cared about was numbers and making corporate happy. Sadly, at this particular location it was true. At other locations in the same chain, I witnessed that teachers felt better cared for and listened to, and I believe that was widely because management there made sure not to overwork them or spread their teachers too thin. They also held teacher appreciation events once/twice a month, such as catered lunches, Sonic drink, snacks, etc. During Teacher Appreciation Week, they even brought in a company to give their teachers short massages during their lunch breaks. While nurturing teachers does not always need to be something as grand and costly as this, it is important to show your teachers that you care for and appreciate them.

Family Activities

ecampbell42 — 2020-09-26 22:20:15 UTC

I really like the idea of getting all parents involved where they are most comfortable/where they want to. I think it would be really smart to send out a survey asking parents what times of day/days of the week they would be free to come to classroom activities and events, and then use that information to strategically schedule them so that all parents have an opportunity to come to some/all of them if they wish. I also plan on using a classroom website and/or using "Smore" to send out weekly newsletters and reminders about upcoming events.

Community Nights

ecampbell42 — 2020-09-26 22:22:34 UTC

Planning Fall Festivals for the communities or fundraiser nights at local eateries can be a great way to get the community connected with your school. At the same time, you could also keep a calendar of community events going on throughout the month, and send notes home about events you plan on inviting your students and their families to.

Teacher Group Chat

adillon31 — 2020-09-26 22:52:50 UTC

One way that teachers can build a community amongst themselves is through a group chat. A lot of teachers I know have a campus wide group chat with other teachers. In this group chat, they usually share funny teacher memes, videos, or stories. They also occasionally make plans with each other to hang out after school or share interesting things going on in the school (like free food in the teachers lounge).

Increased Effort

adillon31 — 2020-09-26 22:59:28 UTC

School should be a place that everyone feels comfortable to be and comfortable to express themselves. This is really hard to do when an environment has too much going on or nothing at all. Ways that a school can improve this is by being consistent in a design. Such as having a strict color scheme, having modern design elements (like a patterned wall in a special location like the office), using one version of a mascot, and having recurring features. Having consistency makes a building feel more unified and reduces design conflict. It also allows individuals to feel more comfortable in a space because they know what to expect as they move around the space.

Alejandra Velez

2020-09-26 23:58:11 UTC

Have a reading circle with students where I bring in books that talk about/have scenarios that involve about what to do with drills or safety in school in general. We would then have a discussion about it where students are able to comment or ask questions.

Alejandra Velez

2020-09-27 00:00:21 UTC

Have a classroom get together where families bring in their favorite family dish. Students, parents, and teachers, will all be able to talk and get to know each other!

Alejandra Velez

2020-09-27 00:01:08 UTC

Make sure that the items in my classroom represent the students that are in it! EX: have books in the classroom with languages that are represented in the class.

Alejandra Velez

2020-09-27 00:02:18 UTC

Have a notebook for each student and every Monday, have students write in whatever they are feeling or going through. Then have the teacher reply to them in the same notebook for students to read.

Alejandra Velez

2020-09-27 00:03:45 UTC

Have quarterly get togethers after school where parents and teachers are able to meet together for a snack and get to know each other.

Alejandra Velez

2020-09-27 00:04:42 UTC

I should know what I want the parent to do, then create an online sign up sheet where parents can see different things I would need help with and give them the opportunity to sign up if they would like.

Anonymous Reporting

adillon31 — 2020-09-27 00:41:48 UTC

Sometimes students feel uncomfortable telling adults about things going on in their lives. This may be caused by anxiety, fear, or lack of time during the school day. A way to help these students feel secure at school is to give them an option to make reports online and anonymously. They can get help for particular problems or just make record of things going on. Having a voice is very important for feelings of safety and security.

Cassidy Avey

2020-09-27 03:35:15 UTC

A team-building activity I think would be fun to creating a community within the teachers would be to do that activity that teachers have students do in middle or high school where they have to team up and create a way to protect an egg so that it can be dropped from a distance without cracking. This could really help facilitating team work and communication skills within the staff, while having fun together and cheering each other on!

Cassidy Avey

2020-09-27 03:40:38 UTC

The physical environment of a classroom is crucial to the students' success. Every part of the room should be wheelchair accessible, and the set up should be calming and organized, not cluttered or in disarray. It should also be representative of the students in your classroom, meaning all of their cultures (and more) should be represented through the materials used as well as the actual physical environment.

Cassidy Avey

2020-09-27 03:43:19 UTC

Feeling safe and secure in their environment is incredibly important for students. I think a good way to help this, is having a "calm down corner" somewhere in the room that students can go when they are upset so that they have a private place they can go to try and work through the emotions they may be feeling. The teacher would hopefully approach them after a few minutes and try and work through what happened with them after they have had a minute to themselves. (This is not a punishment/time-out corner, it is a place the students can go to have a moment to themselves if they would like to)

Cassidy Avey

2020-09-27 03:46:39 UTC

A good way to be a nurturing teacher, and to let your students know that you're not only there to teach them, but also to be there for them for anything they might need. A good way to do this would be to have a different activity each week like meditation or journaling that focuses on relieving stress in the students.

Cassidy Avey

2020-09-27 03:52:28 UTC

It's important for parents to feel as though they're involved in their child's classroom. This can be done in many ways. Once a month or every other month, you can have a day or two where parents are allowed to come and read to or do an activity with the class that helps the students facilitate their learning. Other than that, there are also things like newsletters, class websites, or ways they can contribute from the outside, like having parents make something for a bake sale the class is having!

Cassidy Avey

2020-09-27 03:55:04 UTC

I remember loving when my parents could come hang out in my classroom during after-school holiday parties or open houses! I think that is a great way to involve everyone and really create that sense of community. Events like fundraisers or field days can also excite students, parents, and teachers, while allowing them to intermingle and really get to know each other.

Positive Notes

adillon31 — 2020-09-27 04:03:45 UTC

Something my education & training teacher did when I was in high school was have her students write notes about good things they've noticed their teachers doing that have to do with what they're learning in class. After she collected responses from students and reviewed them she would share the notes with the teachers they were about. This served as a great form of positive feedback for the teachers and a great source of encouragement during rough moments throughout the year.

Department Social Media

adillon31 — 2020-09-27 04:08:55 UTC

It can be harder to involve parents at the high school level for a multitude of reasons. However, I've noticed that social media has been a great way for parents and community members to see what is going on within the classrooms and occasionally get involved. Popular posts for my content area have been in class project updates, student organization updates and announcements, and other information or items (like pictures) that parents like to have and share.

Attendance at Student Activities and Events

adillon31 — 2020-09-27 04:17:38 UTC

The most universal method of school-wide community activities at the high school level revolves around students activities and events. Sporting events is the most well known example. My high school was really great about hosting banquets at the end of each school year to allow school staff members, students and parents to celebrate together.

Celina ISD

mreiland — 2020-09-27 05:31:25 UTC

One way I have seen a school-wide community exhibited is in researching CISD and learning about ways they try to bring together the families of the students and the educators together as a group. They have a monthly meeting when parents of students who speak a different language or are from a different culture can come to the school and see aspects of their culture celebrated. Whether it's in the food the eat, the music they listen to, they presentation they see, etc. Students and families see their culture not only recognized but appreciated in their schools and that makes a world of difference.

Outings

2020-09-27 14:01:15 UTC

For school staff or teams to create a great work environment I think it would be a great idea to go on outings. This could be going to dinner or going to a place that provides tema building. Going somewhere not in a work setting to get to know everyone you work with will create a better work environment for everyone.

Discussions

2020-09-27 14:04:54 UTC

In the classroom it is important for students to have a voice and to take charge in their ideas. Providing student led discussions will help students interact and be comfortable sharing their ideas and their background.

Safe Environment

2020-09-27 14:06:44 UTC

I think it would be great to have a suggestion box and when students have concern it is brought up to the teacher and they can talk to students later privately to promote a safe environment.

Open

2020-09-27 14:10:11 UTC

I think it is very important for the teacher to have a caring heart and to always be open with the students. Being ready to be antone the student needs and to help them feel loved and cared for.

Website

2020-09-27 14:11:32 UTC

I love the idea of websites for parents to know what is going on in the class. providing work, fun activities, goals, and future dates will help parents know what is going on in their child's life.

Sports Games

2020-09-27 14:13:03 UTC

Everyone going to sport events i think is so fun for everyone to get to know each other and engage in conversation to get to know everyone that is not in the classroom.

Teamwork!

mreiland — 2020-09-27 14:36:01 UTC

One way to promote team building is to dedicate time at the beginning, throughout the year, and at the end of the year to the staff of the school. These dedicated times to building the morale should be fun (maybe with the inclusion of a game or two) for it brings a different attitude to those who make the school run. I think it's important to keep things light hearted and joyful throughout the year in little ways as well by hosting a lunch time occasionally, including jean-days, delivering inspirational mail into their mailboxes, etc. If everyone in the school feels important and appreciated, then they will likely care more for their job and their students.

Sticky Note Check-In

mreiland — 2020-09-27 14:48:25 UTC

The other day a friend tagged me in a post on Facebook on how to check in with your students consistently and in private. Each week the teacher gives the students sticky note and the students write their names on the back of the note. Then they stick their note on the board in a designated section that indicates how they are feeling that week ("I'm great, good, okay, meh, struggling, having a tough time, not doing great). Then the teacher can know who to especially check in with that week to keep track of how they're feeling.

Lunch Time

mreiland — 2020-09-27 15:16:17 UTC

I know a lot of teachers who treat their lunch time as their own and would rather not spend it with their kids. While I do think it's important to spend time with co-teachers, I think it's critical to allow students to have this opportunity to spend time with you as well. We often talk about how important it is to break bread with others and how eating together creates a bond. I think this bond should be extended to our students.

Social Media and other Apps

mreiland — 2020-09-27 15:30:24 UTC

I think it's critical that we do not just find one way to reach out to parents, but multiple. I have seen teachers use newspapers, instagram, Facebook pages, and more. When we find ways to reach out to our parents, we are more likely to connect to them and get them involved in the classroom.

Fun Space

mreiland — 2020-09-27 15:32:45 UTC

Many know this, but I am a Harry Potter NERD. I want to transform my classroom to look like a class you would walk into at Hogwarts. By making this space fun for the students and a space they enjoy being in, hopefully it will boost their attention levels, their interest, etc.

Holiday Events

2020-09-27 18:36:30 UTC

Some of the school community things I remember most were fun events that my schools had for holidays. In the fall we would do a pumpkin patch or a fall festival, during December we would have a holiday party, a valentines day party etc. I think this is a fun way for school communities to hang out and also a fun way to maybe share culture with others (for example at the holiday party doing traditions that many different cultures do during that time of year).

Holiday Events

awallace131 — 2020-09-27 18:41:37 UTC

Students choose

awallace131 — 2020-09-27 18:42:08 UTC

Something I remember the most about physical environments in school was that often they were too intense for me, and there was too much on the walls to look at to the point that it was distracting for me. While some students might like to have a busy environment, others might not like that at all. I think it is important as a teacher to take the time to ask students these questions and then work together to create a physical environment that makes everyone feel their best.

Free pass

awallace131 — 2020-09-27 18:44:21 UTC

I saw a post on facebook a few weeks ago about a teacher in a high school classroom (what I want to teach) and a system that he called free passes. Each semester, every student would get three free pass days. These were days that for whatever personal reason, students would get to omit themselves from class discussions for the day by just placing a bean bag on their desk. This allowed the students to privately communicate with the teacher that they needed their space and privacy that day while not having to go into too much detail if they did not want to. I think this is a great way for students of that age to be able to practice autonomy and trust with their teachers.

Lenient instruction

awallace131 — 2020-09-27 18:47:47 UTC

I want to teach high school, and one thing that I really remember from high school is having some days that for personal reasons I was unable to do my homework. It felt horrible for me to have to just not turn in my homework and not be given any chance to explain why. A good method for that I think would be allowing students (only to a certain extent) to be able to come into your classroom during lunch/after school to talk with you and complete their homework if there are times that they are unable to do it. This creates a space for students to feel comfortable not being perfect all the time and a space of mutual trust from both teacher and student.

Online options

awallace131 — 2020-09-27 18:51:33 UTC

When I was in school, both of my parents worked full time jobs. It was often not possible for them to set aside time to come into the school in person to do things. I think a good way to encourage involvement from parents in a similar situation might be to give opportunities to be involved online. Through having a class website where student's work is shown to parents and parents can keep track of the class's progress is an awesome way for parents to be involved.

School activities/events

awallace131 — 2020-09-27 18:53:56 UTC

The main way that I remember feeling really supported in my school-wide community was when teachers would help to promote the school events. Choir concerts, band or orchestra concerts, school plays, sports games etc. When teachers make an effort to go and encourage students to also go I think it is an awesome way to get involved with the school community.

School-wide events/fundraisers

jramsey24 — 2020-09-27 19:40:21 UTC

I have found that building community within the school is best done when there is a school-wide event. I know many schools do festivals, particularly in the fall, but those can be overwhelming to talk with fellow parents and teachers. Some smaller events such as Pancakes with Dad, Specials night, Math night, etc. I have found as more beneficial. It gives parents a chance to talk with other parents while children interact. If teachers are involved it makes it even better because it helps form relationships outside of the classroom. - Jennifer Ramsey

Fun, inclusive classroom

jramsey24 — 2020-09-27 19:48:28 UTC

I think students feel more secure in an environment they feel is not only safe, but fun and inclusive. Projects the students have completed should be hung around the the room. Have modern, current posters and quotes or references. Places where they can be "alone" to read or decompress. Flexible seating options and a variety of work areas are also important. - Jennifer Ramsey

Feedback

jramsey24 — 2020-09-27 19:52:08 UTC

I think for students to feel safe they need to have an environment where they feel safe to provide their feedback. The should be able to tell the teacher, anonymously if necessary, about an issue they think is going on in the classroom. A fellow student they feel is causing problems, a way the class is run that makes it difficult for them, etc. Knowing they can voice their opinion on whatever issue they feel is important is critical to feeling safe and secure. - Jennifer Ramsey

post-it notes

jramsey24 — 2020-09-27 19:57:14 UTC

I saw this before and thought it is relevant here. The teacher had student fill out post-its each day with how they are doing. I'm great, I'm ok, today is hard but I don't want to talk, today is hard please talk to me, etc. The student just places their sticky note in the appropriate column and the teacher can connect with them at the level they feel comfortable. I think this just adds another level of connection where the student can ask to talk without outright asking. Plus it shows that the teacher really does care how they are doing every day. -Jennifer Ramsey

Healthy Competition

2020-09-27 19:58:34 UTC

By creating a safe and fun competition between grade levels, the students and teachers can interaction with people all throughout the school and get recognized for good work! One example of this could be a school-wide fundraiser or box top collections! -Roxanne Rinaldi

Boundaries!

2020-09-27 20:01:15 UTC

One way to promote school climate in the physical environment is to make sure students are away of the teachers and their peers boundaries. For example, the students should be involved in rules making/social contracts as well as held accountable for their respect of others and themselves.
-Roxanne Rinaldi

Regular practice

2020-09-27 20:03:13 UTC

Students should engage in regular practice of safety habits. For example scheduled washing hands frequently throughout the day, snack and lunch time, fire drills, weather safety and much more. This creates healthy habits for students. -Roxanne Rinaldi

Comfort

2020-09-27 20:04:50 UTC

Students should feel as if making mistakes is welcome and appreciated. Mistakes are what helps us learn and the teacher is responsible for teaching students this! Once a student feels empowered to learn without consequences, the relationship and openness between a student and teacher is expanded immensely.
-Roxanne Rinaldi

Communication!

2020-09-27 20:06:41 UTC

Teachers are responsible for fostering a productive and frequent relationship of communication with the classroom parents. If all parents are kept in the loop and frequently contacted, they are more likely to be helpful and receptive in difficult situations. Plus, when students feel represented at home because of parent involvement, they are more tied to school.
-Roxanne Rinaldi

Reading Buddies

2020-09-27 20:08:49 UTC

When I was observing a few years ago, I witnessed a reading buddy program in which fifth graders would pair up with second graders and read to them. I thought this was a fantastic idea and I remember doing it when I was growing up as well! I think that relationship fostering between grades makes students feel comfortable around their school and with their abilities!
-Roxanne Rinaldi

Offer opportunities

jramsey24 — 2020-09-27 20:47:14 UTC

As a parent, I have always wanted to be involved in my children's classrooms. This isn't always as easy as it sounds. Some teachers are not great at communicating and offering the chances for parents to get involved. I think the teacher should increase involvement by offering a list of things parents could help with. Cutting laminating at home, volunteering to read a story in class, helping plan a party, all these are something the parent could help with if the teacher posts it. Perhaps do a monthly email or send-home sheet with opportunities? Or if you have parents that just prefer to buy something, a list of items your classroom may need. That way parents who are limited on time could still feel like they are contributing in a way. - Jennifer Ramsey

school-wide events

jramsey24 — 2020-09-27 20:51:31 UTC

I think this is similar to the team building with the school. I think activities like Math night, Science night, Specials night, , etc. all promote involvement with the entire school. Teachers are there running the stations and parents are there with their children. This encourages and supports involvement and communication outside the classroom and connections on a more personal level. - Jennifer Ramsey

Team building

mkelly162 — 2020-09-27 20:56:27 UTC

I think I great way to promote team building with the school community would be to have the teachers get together and play games. Games that help them get to know one another and be more comfortable reaching out for help or stress relief when necessary. These could be fun gym games that used to be played as kids. -Mackenzie Kelly

mkelly162 — 2020-09-27 20:58:12 UTC

I think bulletin boards are a great way to include students in the physical classroom. Students could bring in an item that represents their culture or a picture of their family to go up on the board and everyone can have their own space to represent themselves. -Mackenzie Kelly

mkelly162 — 2020-09-27 21:08:15 UTC

I think a great way to make students feel safe and secure is consistency. When students know what to expect in the classroom they feel safe. Also getting to know the teacher and their classmates makes them feel secure in the environment and want to participate. -Mackenzie Kelly

mkelly162 — 2020-09-27 21:09:27 UTC

Being a nurturing teacher is very important. The students should feel that they are cared for in the classroom. A great way to do this is to get to know them personally and use their name and facts about them in conversation. Also having a safe space for them to talk and express themselves. -Mackenzie Kelly

mkelly162 — 2020-09-27 21:10:43 UTC

I think a great way to have parents involved is by having classroom parties. Whether it be valentines day or 100 days of school having the parents come in and help set up and participate is a great way to involve parents. -Mackenzie Kelly

mkelly162 — 2020-09-27 21:11:43 UTC

I think events are great ways to have school wide communities. In my brothers elementary school they had an event where the school catered In n Out Burger and everyone came out and ate and played on the school playground. It allowed parents to meet teachers and the classmates their students interacted with. -Mackenzie Kelly

2020-09-27 21:53:34 UTC

In elementary, we always had one night in the month where students and families could come together and watch movies together, where parents could be involved with teachers. It was such a fun night that I still remember till this day, and helped connect with teachers and other students I didn't even know.
-Jason Griego

2020-09-27 21:56:16 UTC

A great way to include parents is having them help with fundraisers acting as chaperones. They would drive the dance team members that were grouped up in 4 -5 people and go to restaurants. Another way is having parents help on holidays, if they celebrated it, like on thanksgiving where students would hold a feast, and parents could come to and enjoy this meal with other families.
- Jason Griego

2020-09-27 22:00:06 UTC

Like Katherine, I believe in a open door policy because my teacher had this as well and made me feel welcomed, also she was very understanding. Another way to nurture is to have some games for them to get to know each other starting off with the teacher first.
Also, have a box of compliments that students can write and put in, then is shared every Friday before class ends.
-Jason Griego

2020-09-27 22:03:52 UTC

Where students are allowed to voice their opinions in a safe way is important, mentally or physically, and just making the classroom feel like a home to them.
-Jason Griego

2020-09-27 22:06:35 UTC

Why not have a show and tell of what students want to bring, something that can tell them who they are is they want to. Having encouraging signs around the room is amazing, it helped me in classes when I just didn't want to do the work.
-Jason Griego

2020-09-27 22:08:16 UTC

Have a team retreat in the summer to get to know new and old faces. This is a way for staff to see how each other works and possibly even use something that they learned. Another is having a school wide event that takes place in the parking lot, and students are allowed to buy tickets for food stalls and games, provides a way for parents to come and spend time with their children and promote and school community.
-Jason Griego

Safety Drills

2020-09-28 02:16:12 UTC

One way teaches can ensure a safe and secure environment is to follow district rules and protocols when it comes to the safety of students. I think a good way to ensure students understand and are aware of the drills is to make it a topic that is talked about in the classroom throughout the days, not just the day of the drill. This way students can become familiar with the topic and not get anxious/nervous on the day of the drill. I think if students are familiar with the drill and it's talked about frequently, it won't be this big scary thing when it actually happens. - Petra Argil

Petra Argil

2020-09-28 02:20:11 UTC

I think a great way to do team building with just your grade level team is doing something like Painting with a Twist.

Petra Argil

2020-09-28 02:22:31 UTC

Showcasing student's work in the classroom and on the door is a good way to have a positive physical environment.

Lesly Morataya

2020-09-28 02:25:11 UTC

A good way for a class bonding will be to do a "we connect" game. Teachers can get to know each other better when they connect with other teachers.

Lesly Morataya

2020-09-28 02:29:00 UTC

I would like to add flags from different countries to show the different cultural backgrounds in the classroom

Lesly Morataya

2020-09-28 02:29:54 UTC

I would like to have a 1 on 1 with my students to catch up with them, and it doesn't have to be anything personal but something they will like to share with me. I believe this will help students express themselves more often, allow them to feel like they are in safe place in the classroom

Lesly Morataya

2020-09-28 02:33:24 UTC

words of affirmation, my theatre teacher will give us notes uplifting us every time we came in the classroom.

Lesly Morataya

2020-09-28 02:35:24 UTC

When I was in elementary we had open house were parents could come in and meet the teachers, and walk around the school to see their students work in the walls made in different classes

Lesly Morataya

2020-09-28 02:42:47 UTC

In elementary we had this yearly field day were everyone got to go out in the playground where there were tons of games to play off and parents will come as well and spend money on tickets were their kids could play

Resources

2020-09-28 03:18:04 UTC

Something I plan on doing is making my recorded lectures and class activities available for parents to review and give them opportunities to help out with certain activities if they would like

Community Involvement

bfarnworth1 — 2020-09-28 03:24:45 UTC

While attending high school, I was by a friend that at her school they did community days. These days would differ each time, but about once a month, the whole school would to something good for the community, either inside or outside of school. One time she had to pick up 30 pieces of trash, document it and get it signed as her community day project. I thought that was a really neat idea to get the students involved in the community and outside the classroom.

Group Friendly

bfarnworth1 — 2020-09-28 03:29:48 UTC

I want my classroom to be set up into groups of 4, one of the hardest parts of math for many people is they feel like they are alone when they don't understand. In groups the student's will be able to work together and discuss where they got their answers.

Safe and Secure

bfarnworth1 — 2020-09-28 03:33:34 UTC

I think the best way to promote a sense of security in the classroom is for the teacher to have a connection with the students. If the students don't feel like they are being judges, they are more likely to be open to learning.

Care

bfarnworth1 — 2020-09-28 03:38:07 UTC

Providing a sense of connection and providing comfort when needed will given certain students the nurturing environment they need. Being aware of a students home situation can be very important when it comes to this.

Games

bfarnworth1 — 2020-09-28 03:41:28 UTC

In high school, this biggest school-wide activities revolve around the biggest sporting events, mainly football, so getting everyone involved will create a greater sense of community.

Subject fair

eperry38 — 2021-02-03 01:39:17 UTC

I feel like a good team building event would be something kind of like a job fair but instead of jobs it's different subjects. This would be done before school starts. For example; the math teachers would have a booth full of games, information about the different math teachers, and prizes. Then there would be Theatre, Band, and every single subject that is offered at the school as well as other staff, including the principle and vice principle. That way the teachers that teach the same subject get to work together to create their booth, parents get to know everyone within the school, and students don't get to know just their teachers but every teacher and staff member within their school.

What I love about theatre bulletin board.

eperry38 — 2021-02-03 01:55:05 UTC

Since I will be a theatre teacher I thought making a bulletin board that allows students to pin things on there that they love about theatre could add to the classroom's physical environment. For example; I would create a big board that was blank and told the students that this is a board that they can use to share something exciting that they found out about relating to theatre, a funny joke that only theatre students would understand, an upcoming show that they found out about, etc. as long as its appropriate, relates to theatre, and is positive. This would help the students feel like its their own space that is a fun and encouraging environment where they can feel like a family with other theatre students.

End of the week comment jar.

eperry38 — 2021-02-03 02:10:38 UTC

Something I would like to do with my students to help them feel secure and safe is by having a comment jar. Instead of just leaving the jar out, I would have every student every Friday put a comment in the jar. I would tell them that they can just put that the feel fine if they don't have any comments but everyone has to put a paper in the jar that way there isn't eyes watching the students that put comments in the jar while others don't. This would allow the students to feel secure that their comments are not being seen by anyone else but me and that they can freely express any concerns or struggles they are having.

Teachers supporting teachers website.

eperry38 — 2021-02-03 02:17:30 UTC

I think a great way to help nurture teachers is by creating a website or Facebook page where all of the teachers from the same school can share strategies that have been working well for them, something positive that has happened within the classroom, questions regarding how to benefit their teaching, students, or classroom, etc. I think this would really create a nurturing environment for the teachers because it helps them feel supported and not so stressed because they other people to turn to. It also just creates a great community within the teachers and gives the teachers a stress reliver by having a place to go to for positivity and encouragement regarding their school, students, and teaching.

Theatre activity night

eperry38 — 2021-02-03 02:26:06 UTC

I think a great way to involve the parents in what the students do in the classroom is have an event for the parents to come to where the students do theatre activities that we have been doing in the classroom, explain how it works, and then have the parents do it with the students. For example; I would have my students to an improv game in front of the class with me like we do in class, and then have the students explain how it works, and then have the parents play the improv game with them. This would allow the parents to be able to see what we do for fun and engagement within the classroom and also get to experience what their students experience within my classroom.

Advertising and attending

eperry38 — 2021-02-03 02:35:19 UTC

School-wide community events should be very important to a teacher and I believe a teacher should advertise it as well as attend those events. The way I want to do this is by having a dry erase board in the classroom that says "Coming soon" or "Now featuring" that looks like a theatre advertisement. I would then constantly write all the events that are happening that week that way my students are aware of all the events going on and it shows that I care about other events that they are involved in. I would also make it a priority to attend atleast one event each week and I would change the type of event I was going to each week as well, that way all of my students that are involved in other extra curricular activities feel supported.

Jaclyn McAdory Mix It Ups

2021-02-03 03:02:21 UTC

Once a month, have different sets of classes come together to participate in an activity. This will give different students an opportunity to work together and get to know others students. Especially in elementary school this would a great way to build an actual community within the school.

Jaclyn McAdory Make It Relivant

2021-02-03 03:05:08 UTC

For physical environment, I would ensure that my classroom (the gym) is current and can be relatable to my students. I want them to walk into the gym excited about what we are doing in physical education.

Jaclyn McAdory- Implement Safety protocols

2021-02-03 03:08:01 UTC

At the beginning of each year, I will be taking the necessary time needed to ensure that students are in a safe environment and are practicing safety while participating in class activities. I will make sure that students are extremely familiar with the different signals and drills to keep them safe while at school.

Jaclyn McAdory - Communicate/Empathize

2021-02-03 03:10:30 UTC

To help with being a nurturing teacher, I will ensure that I am listening and hearing my students. I will make sure that I not only get to know facts about them in the beginning of the year but I will ensure that I am giving them what they need through out the year by conducting "check ups" is at all possible. Meaning if "Sally" ells me her mom is not feeling well on Mon. I need t o make sure I ask Sally how her mom is doing by the end of the week. Students need to know you care about their problems too.

Jaclyn McAdory- Keep Trying Ways to Reach Parents

2021-02-03 03:14:18 UTC

Since I am a parent, I hope I give my parents the patience that I need from my kids' teachers. Their will be some parents that seem like they don't care because they don't respond or take forever to do so. Being sure to stay focused on the students and staying consistent with the parents will help a teacher have a better chance for the parents to communicate back.

Jaclyn McAdory- Clean ups

I think it is important for students to see us involved in school functions where they would attend. Maybe volunteer for the concession stand at one of the games or book fair or anything that the students in your classroom are involved in. This will show them that you have an interest in what is important to them.

apenaloza3 — 2021-02-12 02:05:52 UTC

In the years I worked as a substitute, I was able to witness an event that seemed to bring administration as well as teachers from different teaching grades come together in a elementary school. This event was about having lunch away from campus on a giving date; they would bring in subs for half day to fill in for those teachers. As a parent and substitute teacher, I felt like I was contributing for my daughters' school community to come closer and learn from each other.

As we all know, warm, well-run classrooms begin with the room's physical layout, this is the arrangement of desks and working space, the attractiveness and appeal of bulletin boards, the storage of materials and supplies, etc. A far from typical classroom settings, as a bilingual teacher I would like to create physical environments to invite my diverse students to feel welcome to share their differences.

apenaloza3 — 2021-02-12 02:15:05 UTC

In my opinion, how safe our students and visitors feel in determines how well everyone performs and interacts with one another in a school environment. For example, creating a safe learning environment is about students taking pride in their work and in themselves. One of the best ways to help our kids along on this goal is celebrate their achievements as they are happening.

apenaloza3 — 2021-02-12 02:23:20 UTC

A nurturing teacher is warm, accessible, enthusiastic and caring. A teacher is approachable, not only to students, but to everyone on campus. We need to be the kind of teacher to whom our students know they can go with any problems or concerns or even to share a funny story. In my opinion, nurturing teachers possess good listening skills and take time out of their way-too-busy schedules for anyone who needs them. As for nurturing our teachers, I can say that parents and administration need to step up. Is so simple as sending school supplies when teachers are running low in their classrooms. This will show we are their to support them.

apenaloza3 — 2021-02-12 02:29:57 UTC

From experience I have volunteered as a parent throughout the years. I have had teachers that loved parents to come into the classroom and either help students with their work, make copies, decorate bulletin boards, etc. Others that may not want parents to be around give the opportunity to translate letters newsletters, laminate different stuff and cut from home. Great time!

apenaloza3 — 2021-02-12 02:33:53 UTC

Once again, I love the activities our schools have developed for our students. For example, we have had Friday Family movie night, Spring dance, game night, among many others. I have voluntered for every activity and have had my kids involve in every activity. This not only helps the schools, but for parents and students to get to know each other.

apenaloza3 — 2021-02-12 02:38:04 UTC

Friendly Competitions

2021-02-15 03:52:51 UTC

In elementary, the classrooms will compete amongst one another as to the amount of hours read. whatever class had most hours of reading books, would win a pizza party. This friendly competition allowed for open interaction amongst classes.

Themed Grade Level

emeza41 — 2021-02-15 03:57:33 UTC

As a grade level, teachers could decide on a theme, they would decorate a section or the entire class. For example, second grade theme could be space. Motivational quotes such as "Reach for the stars" could be used! Students could even help by brainstorming ideas!

It Starts with You

emeza41 — 2021-02-15 05:27:19 UTC

As a educators we should prioritize creating relationships with our students. We should get to know our students and plan out different ways to create a positive environment. One good idea is to have the class, create an agreement as to what rules could be followed in order to create a safe and secure environment.

Showing Up

emeza41 — 2021-02-15 05:30:34 UTC

A way to show that you care for your student is by showing support. This can be done by attending events the students are part of.

Classroom Website

emeza41 — 2021-02-15 05:39:52 UTC

Having a classroom website and an app to keep parents involved/informed is a great way to include parents.

Volunteering

emeza41 — 2021-02-15 05:57:14 UTC

Schools can come together to clean a community, create cards and more.

Art teachers can display the student 2D & 3D art projects in the hallways/display cases, or in the school library, or front office.

2021-09-06 18:41:05 UTC

We all like getting little notes of encouragement. I could send out little 2" square "Ready, Set, Go..." cards to each of the stakeholders. - T.Archer

2021-09-06 18:41:11 UTC

One of the little ways I can help nurture other teachers is to collaborate with the math, history, science, or social studies teachers - get their topic itinerary and have that as a lesson in the Art studio classroom.

2021-09-06 18:49:35 UTC

Everybody loves a party! Invite the parents to the last-day-before-school-holiday theme party. Instead of just sending/dropping off the goodies, they can stay & join in on the fun & games.

2021-09-06 18:51:48 UTC

One of my favorite memories growing-up was when our school hosted a Fall Festival party on a Friday night each year. A friendly competition game of Pictionary between the students and adults would be great!

tarcher22 — 2021-09-06 18:58:23 UTC

The high school I attended was large (728 students - 10th-12th). Our principal instituted a "pink-out" room. It was formerly used as a storage space, but he had it painted pink. In color theory, pink is a very calming color and feelings of anger dissipate within minutes. Therefore, whenever angry students were "sent to the office," that is where they sent to destress. It didn't take long for the students to love this environment - feeling safe & secure.

tarcher22 — 2021-09-06 19:23:11 UTC

Team building/School community

rclibbens — 2021-09-07 19:01:46 UTC

An activity that I have done in the best with people I have worked with before in a day care is an activity that helped us learn each others names. In this activity we would first begin by introducing ourselves then we would get into a circle. Once in the circle we would take turns looking at someone and saying their names. They would then look at someone else and say their names. Once your name was said you would step back. This would continue until everyone went and their name was said. This was a really fun activity because it allowed for people to learn names as well as have fun.

Physical environment

rclibbens — 2021-09-07 19:06:04 UTC

When I was going to school for my associates I had the honor of shadowing teachers and getting to see their classroom. When siting in the classroom I would look around and see the way it was designed and most of the time I would see students artwork on the wall as well as some assignments that they did. I really enjoyed this because it allowed the students to have a chance to make the room fell welcoming in their own way. They decided what was mostly on the wall and I believe gave them a sense of belonging. However, the teacher made sure to not have too much stuff that it would distract the students. One other thing that I liked was the teacher would display the gifts the students would draw for the teacher which showed that she really cared.

Everyone belongs

rclibbens — 2021-09-07 19:10:46 UTC

I strongly believe that it is important that when walking into a classroom full of different types of students rules need to be put into place so that all students feel welcomed. This means that at the beginning of the year the teacher should let all students know what is expected of them as well as what the students expect of the teacher. This means that the teacher should make rules about no judgement in the classroom and that no question is stupid. Having an environment that invites all the students is important in making sure that everyone feels like they belong.

Great listener

rclibbens — 2021-09-07 19:13:55 UTC

When I was in fourth grade I had a teacher that would listen to her students and care for what they would say. She would let me come into the classroom and tell her about my weekend and add commentary back so that she showed that she was listening. This allowed me to feel cared about as well as made me feel like if I needed anything she would be there to help me. Teachers need to be able to have times where they allow their students time to discuss what is going on in their life so they can better understand their students and understand what is going on in their life.

Parents

rclibbens — 2021-09-07 19:27:13 UTC

Most parents want to feel like they are involved with their child's life and when they drop the kids off at school they are miss apart of their adventure. Therefore I believe it is important for parents to be involved in the classroom when it is appropriate. Teachers should also make a point to send out letters to parents regularly letting them know how they are doing and what they are learning about.

I like the idea of going to a park for parents and even teachers to socialize. I think it would be cool to have a free event right after school hours right outside of the school so that it is nearby, and offer free food and maybe ice breaker sheets or a bingo where people need to meet someone who identifies with the fact in one of the boxes, and the first person to get multiple people to sign their bingo sheet wins. This may be more for kids but it could be a fun light hearted thing to do.

2021-09-07 19:30:32 UTC

Katheryne Haskin

Festivals and get togethers

rclibbens — 2021-09-07 19:31:00 UTC

Growing up one thing my school would host was part for parents to come to the school or even lunches for grandparents. The main thing I really enjoyed was the science festivals they would host so that the students can come in and do many different science based activities that would include the parents, teachers, and the students. This was a great way to learn and be involved with the school community.

I think that it is important to decorate the classroom in different colors, with pictures from various cultures, and in a way that is comfortable and joyful for it to be a welcoming environment. It should not be too overwhelming, I think it would be cool for students to contribute in making something for decoration in the classroom, like all helping with a colorful paper chain.

2021-09-07 19:35:00 UTC

Katheryne Haskin

I think that it would be helpful for there to be time after drills where students can ask questions. I think that these questions can be addressed gently so that the students do not become terrified, but also it is important for them to some extent be prepared for things.

2021-09-07 19:35:29 UTC

Katheryne Haskin

I like the idea of teachers having a time once a month to meet together after school ( not too often or too long so that their personal time outside of school is still protected) where they can talk to each other in a constructive way about questions that they have, without it becoming gossip. There could also be a drop box for teachers to put things that they are struggling with specifically in their role as a teacher, and some leaders of the teachers and school can address those cards in a meeting in a way that builds the teachers up and advocates for their growth and well-being.

2021-09-07 19:38:13 UTC

Katheryne Haskin

I think it would be cool for parents to sign up to bring food for different holiday events, or for parents to sign up to dress up as characters and be a guest reader. In both of these scenarios the parent gets to participate in the classroom, and also would not stay very long.

2021-09-07 19:39:18 UTC

Katheryne Haskin

I think it would be cool to promote events where people can just fellowship and meet each other and their kids can hang out as well, and maybe to have a facebook group or GroupMe that is optional for parents to join for parents to comment where they get supplies, where they get things for school events, when they are going to a park or something, so that they have opportunities to meet other people and support other people.

2021-09-07 19:40:53 UTC

Katheryne Haskin

Kelly Mendez Recycle

2021-09-08 01:37:07 UTC

Something that would be good for school and community is to have a class over recycle and what's not recycle and then have it do it outside of the classroom and have them participate with the parents as well.

Kelly Mendez: Helping in Class

2021-09-08 01:39:43 UTC

Something that I saw when I was observing my classroom is that students are engaged when they participate when their helping decorate the classroom for a theme that we will be learning that day.

Team Building

2021-09-08 03:11:03 UTC

I remember when I was in high school and we went to large honors meetings we would do the normal team building games. We would play the human knot game where we have to untangle ourselves and things like that.
I think it would also be good to go around to all of the teachers and hear about how they go here teaching their content and grade level at their school. This would probably be a long task but I think it would be very interesting.
Maybe we could do a team building check list over teaching things. Like "Find another teacher that teaches math" or something as easy as "Find a teacher who has coffee every morning". I actually really like this idea.

Your Classroom Becomes Our Classroom

2021-09-08 03:14:19 UTC

When I think about what my classroom environment would be like I want it to be relaxing and like the students are comfortable with being there. I know that Math stresses out so many students and I would like to focus on getting students comfortable with me and confident in my classroom before focusing on the content. I feel like slowly I can make my classroom feel more like the students contribute to it over the year. I like the idea of a simple classroom that becomes more developed with help from the students.

Being Comfortable And Confident

2021-09-08 03:18:33 UTC

The bottom line is that students will never be able to learn from you if they are not comfortable and happy in your class. If we cannot do that then we might as well not be teaching.
I would like to make sure that I make specific efforts with every student and family either inside or outside of classroom so I can hear their concerns with math and what they are fearful about with my classroom. I want students and families to feel heard and confident to share their feelings in the future if necessary.
I like the idea of having different seating and a new set up for my classroom then the normal desks and chairs. I hardly ever sit at a desk and chair anymore why should I make them? Different seating may also make them feel more physically comfortable and I am happy to do that.

The Importance of Caring

2021-09-08 03:21:21 UTC

It is so important that if you are a teacher that you are able to care and put yourself in the shoes of your students and parents. Not only do you need to care for your own knowledge of the student but also so the parents feel understood and comfortable to come with you in an emergency.
I am going to be sure to make a large effort to meet my students and their families and make sure to keep notes and tabs about their families and feelings. The small things count.

Student Parent Relationship

2021-09-08 03:25:20 UTC

When I was in school my mom was very very involved in school. I know that this is not the reality for most parents but if I could even get parents involved after school with something for their child inside of school this could be really encouraging for a student to keep up the work in school. I think that knowing the parents also involves knowing their schedule and whether they are able to meet at the school, if they have preferred times for meetings/calls/texts. And if they tell you these preferences REMEMBER THEM! If you keep up this work, if parents are free to help in the class, they will make an effort to be involved in the school.

Friday Fun Days!

2021-09-08 03:28:19 UTC

Lots of schools do the activities where the whole school is involved in doing one small task every week. Even at TWU, on Monday we all wear red. Something even as small as this can make students feel proud to be part of the community at the school and see that many students in the school have common interests as them. This could give students the intrinsic motivation to try at school which is just what most students need!

Whole school activities / game days

2021-09-08 16:51:51 UTC

When I was in elementary, we had halloween festivals and school fun festivals that we could connect with fellow students at. We also would have game days in support of different things going on, such as like a special olympics for students with disabilities, etc. I think these things are important to help build communities at school. -Sara Hamlin

Physical Environment

2021-09-08 16:54:26 UTC

I want to make sure my students feel like the classroom is another home to them. I think displaying their art or accomplishments is important. As well, I want the walls and atmosphere of my room not to be hectic, but well organized and look as though it is a calming space. Additionally, I would like a spot for sensory issues or a quiet area, where students when overwhelmed, can go and relax for a bit. - Sara Hamlin

Purpose

2021-09-08 17:05:07 UTC

Those who become teachers need to remember why they are there. We are going to be teachers to help students grow not only educationally but mature as well. In order to help students grow, we need to let them feel not only excepted in the classroom but supported as well. Education isn’t always an easy process, but the outcome is worth it. Everything a teacher is doing now for a student, prepares them for the future. Teachers need to be accepting of all cultural backgrounds and individual characteristics each and every student has. - Sara Hamlin

Parent’s

2021-09-08 17:09:35 UTC

I think sometimes having parent involvement can be difficult since not all parents have time or the ability to be involved in their child’s school life. It would be nice if with the parents in the classroom, you could have them schedule a day where they can come up and talk about they jobs/ culture. This can not only build an environment where the students can hear about other jobs but can learn about culture. Another thing for parent involvement is allowing them to give ideas or feedback that can improve the classroom. One idea I had is a family photo wall, where students could display family members/ pets in the classroom. -Sara Hamlin

Community activities

2021-09-08 17:12:33 UTC

Activities the school could participate in could be sport related, but also community activities such as volunteering with animals or creating care packages for women shelters. Another thing I remember doing was raising chickens. We raised and hatched chickens in school that not only was a science lesson, but these chickens then went to farmers to use after raising them. It was great to watch them grow and you feel accomplished as well. -Sara Hamlin

Aubry Needham

2021-09-08 21:25:54 UTC

Team building with your School staff members is important so that you can collaborate ideas with eachother. You may need feedback or help from other staff members so it is always good to have good relationships with them.

Aubry Needham

2021-09-08 21:27:03 UTC

Children need to feel safe so that their first need in Maslows's hierarchy of needs is met. When you teach children to make safe choices and to consider if they are making others feel safe, the classroom will run smoother.

Tiffani Jones

2021-09-09 12:47:19 UTC

Team building is essential when trying to increase moral and motivation with teachers. A benefit from these activities is that trust is built between team members and staff and it helps to strengthen the culture of the school. Providing lunch and learns where teachers are able to swap ideas about school improvements, contributing to a positive, daily tweet, or even off site retreats that focus on team building skills is a great way to increase engagement.

Tiffani Logan

2021-09-09 12:53:56 UTC

Creating a safe and comfortable environment allows students, teachers, and even parents to let their guard down and be engaged. Since students and teachers spend more time in the school than their own homes, it is important that they feel secure and accepted. Having comfortable seating options, welcoming decor, and celebrating students' accomplishments by displaying their work/achievements helps to foster a positive community atmosphere.

Tiffani Jones

2021-09-09 13:13:40 UTC

I believe that promoting an "open door" policy is a great way to produce a safe a secure environment. This goes for teachers, admin, counselors, and other staff members. If a student feels comfortable speaking with an adult about an issue or concern, they will be more likely to communicate effectively. Communication is a relationship builder and one of the most important things for an educator to do is build positive relationships with students.

Tiffani Jones

2021-09-09 13:18:08 UTC

To be a nurturing teacher, you need to get to know every student on an individual level to find out what their goals and interests are. Teachers must be active listeners and respect each of their students' feelings and autonomy. Creating a culturally responsive classroom that promotes acceptance and respect is a great place to start. Not only do the students feel represented as a unique individual, they are able open up and be themselves.

Tiffani Jones

2021-09-09 13:22:01 UTC

I believe that most parents want to be actively involved in their child's school experience. If the parent has positive feelings towards their child's learning, the child will more than likely be more motivated, social, and engaged. Having parents volunteer are classroom helpers, weekly readers, and providing a routine newsletter/website so that they can keep up with what is going on in the classroom is a great way to increase parent involvement.

Tiffani Jones

2021-09-09 13:43:32 UTC

When I think of school-wide communities, I think of the PTA. This type of involvement empowers teachers and parents to become advocates for the students and voice their concerns openly. The main goal of this community is to focus on the success of the students. One of their bonus tasks is to raise money for the school for things such as field-trips, supplies for teachers (classroom and lounge), and for in-school/after school programs.

Team Building/ School Community

2021-09-09 22:45:39 UTC

Like you mentioned in the powerpoint, i think a great way to build up a team is by doing silly and fun activities. This helps build meaningful relationships with the staff, not only your team members but also admin and other faculty as well. This helps create a community where teachers feel comfortable, and work together to build instruction. For school community I think having after school events where parents and students can attend would be great as well. This allows for a lot of socialization outside of the classroom. I also think having fun competitions among the grade levels or within the grade levels would be fun too. Winner could win an ice cream party, movie day, or pizza party!

Physical Environment

2021-09-09 22:53:55 UTC

I want the physical environment of my classroom to be comforting and cozy. I think i would have open concept but also have a lot of different types of furniture like bean bags, rugs, pillows, floor lamps, etc. I want to be clean and organized so materials are easy to find. Additionally, i want students to feel proud and supported in the classroom a way to reach this is by putting up their work, projects, and a birthday board or a "get to know me" board with their name, picture, birthday, interests, etc.

Overcoming the Struggles Through Collaboration and Learning

mpriller — 2021-09-11 01:32:02 UTC

When it comes to overcoming any struggle through learning and achievement, I think that team building with our classes or schools is of great value towards solving any problem. I like the idea of getting to know the kids while learning their strengths and weaknesses so that I can build them up from there while facing every struggle that they still need to overcome. With that in mind, I would create an activity that involves flashcards with each one having a word that describes the area where he or she struggles. Afterwards, I would like to let everyone write down or speak up about their struggles so that not only could I listen to their examples. I could also ask them about what has resulted in their struggles and then ask them to collaborate with their peers in knowing how to overcome them. Furthermore, I would support them by saying that in order to look at the competition, we have to do it not better, but different.

Themed for Motivation

mpriller — 2021-09-11 01:58:16 UTC

I would like to decide on a theme based on a musical where I would decorate a section or the entire class with symbols and posters that represent that musical theme. For example, the musical theme for their first year in orchestra could be "The Sound of Music". Motivational quotes like "Let's start at the very beginning" could be used on the outside of the door where the students could read before coming into class with enthusiasm.

Earning Trust through Safety and Security

mpriller — 2021-09-11 02:15:49 UTC

To help the kids feel safe and secure, I would create a "one-pager on safety" at the beginning of the school year that describes the importance of safety in the features of learning. If the students do not know what to look out for or expect, they would not know who else to trust in learning, other than their teacher. I would earn the trust from all of my students while letting them know that I am there to listen to what they have to talk about.

Understanding Unlocks Support

mpriller — 2021-09-11 02:26:37 UTC

One of the ways to show that a teacher cares is by taking an interest in asking things like "how is your day" or "how are things at home"? Even though those are the questions that come across a teacher's mind, we would have to listen to the students' story in order to not only understand where they are coming from but to also support them through caring about their well-being.

Giving the parents updates on their kid's learning

mpriller — 2021-09-11 02:36:56 UTC

When feeling concerned for the child it is critically important that the parents are to be involved so that they know where their kids are academically. It is also important to send them emails with positive notes based on what their kid is up to as well as giving them the news during a meeting on how well their kid is doing in class. No matter how well they do in class or how busy their parents are, we as teachers must keep the door opened for the parents to get involved in their kids' education.

Back to school party

mpriller — 2021-09-11 02:55:24 UTC

A back to school party could give students and the teachers opportunities to collaborate on the startup of the first week before going on from there. Through an activity that involves multiple choice on the "Are you ready to get back to school?" quiz, students can answer honestly. After the choices coming from the students have been taken into account, one of the teacher heads of any department can speak with both encouragement and motivation that we will get through this. With both of those ways, this activity could be used to engage the students in what to expect as well as how to build on from there while growing through their learning.

Overcoming the Struggles Through Collaboration and Learning

mpriller — 2021-09-11 03:16:47 UTC

Themed for Motivation

mpriller — 2021-09-11 03:17:30 UTC

Earning Trust through Safety and Security

mpriller — 2021-09-11 03:18:07 UTC

jmolina101 — 2021-09-12 21:51:09 UTC

As for safe and security I had this one chemistry teacher who I am very close with to this day. He was a retired Marine so of course he had very certain expectations but a soft heart when it came to caring about us. So when it came to drills he made sure to let us know at the beginning of the school year that since he is a trained military soldier he would be able to take down somebody that was not suppose to be in our school when we went through our school intruder drills. And he had to where he would be by the door ready and the kids that where trained in martial arts or any training of any kind in one side of the room to help fight and the kids with no training at all with stuff in there hands to throw at the intruder if they where to enter our room. This was so it made it difficult for the intruder to actually hurt somebody and made it feasible for us to get away. Now I know not every teacher can do this but he made it clear that in a situation like that instead of being in terror and possibly classmates dying to where some students get hurt a little bit but we are alive and escape the intruder.

POW wow

jmolina101 — 2021-09-12 22:32:50 UTC

My favorite teacher who inspired me to become a teacher did this thing called pow wows and when she said that to us we would get our chairs in a circle and sometimes the POW wows would be specific or just anything in general. But by this time it was our senior year and a lot of us where stressed about testing college apps resumes grades etc. so instead of doing work that day she had us do a POW wow where she said I know it’s senior year things are much more stressful and pressure is being applied by everyone around you. I just want this space to share anything they like to get off there chest and then to end will share something we are excited about after we graduate. So we all went around telling each other what we are so worried about and some said the scores on their test some said college applications and some even mentioned money or if they even wanted to go to school. After we all talked about it we all went around and shared some things we are excited about after high school graduation. She always made sure to give this nurturing affect and most the time she would share her worries with us as well and by the end of it we all felt better and reminded each other that no matter what we are here for each other.

rgreeley1 — 2021-09-12 22:38:51 UTC

In subbing I have noticed that teachers have more space in their classrooms than they used to. I have seen mini-fridges, coffee makers and microwaves in the room. I think this is very important. Most have a table where they work with students or have items they use with students there, then they have another area that is more of a reflection of who they are. I would like to see more of this and for teachers to be encouraged to use this. Most teachers have a very quick 30 minute lunch break, or have to be in the room early. It really is their living space during the day.

It's their living space during the day!

rgreeley1 — 2021-09-12 22:45:55 UTC

As much time as kids spend in the classroom with teachers, I think it is so important to make the physical environment conducive to feeling they are in a safe space and in a community where they are expected to be a positive part of. I read one of the notes someone put that talked about letting kids help design the room. I like this. Of course there are some things that are basic, but why not get creative.
As a SPED teacher I want to have a quiet space and an sensory area in my room.

For parent involved classroom

jmolina101 — 2021-09-12 23:00:54 UTC

I would say that for parent involved classrooms we did this thing called potlucks and what a potluck was we all bring food either made or bought to share with everyone and some times we did like culture meals or a theme. My teacher made sure to email all of our parents about culture potluck how we would bring some food that would be represented by our culture to share with the class and of course I brought tacos to share with the class because I’m Mexican and in my culture tacos and other dishes like that where part of it so my mom and I made tacos that day and brought them to class and we got to see many other cultures and their parents as well.

Special Olympics

jmolina101 — 2021-09-12 23:12:50 UTC

We the students did this thing called the special olympics and it was during track and field season so the whole school would get together and be assigned a special Ed student to watch over and take them to their events. So all the student would get set up and the whole district of special education students would participate in all things track and field and it was amazing because we got to see the special education students happy and participate in activities other students do as well.

Group activities

bbrewer117 — 2021-09-13 01:19:05 UTC

Have students do ice breaker activities to get to know one another. Encourage students to join clubs the help them get involved. This helps create a community and friends.

Simple Environment

bbrewer117 — 2021-09-13 01:22:52 UTC

Only have things in your room that is needed. I believe that if I don't use it then I don't need to have it in my classroom. This helps clear out any extra clutter that could distract students and yourself.

Drills

bbrewer117 — 2021-09-13 01:25:51 UTC

Make sure you take drills important. Make sure you make your students know the importance of taking drill seriously.

Opportunities

bbrewer117 — 2021-09-13 01:28:45 UTC

Give students the opportunity to speak and actually listen to them. Let them feel heard and understood. Give students and yourself some grace.

Have Parents Help

bbrewer117 — 2021-09-13 01:30:31 UTC

Parents don't need to help all the time, but keep them updated in what's going on in the classroom. If you dint need help directly in your class, give them information about other ways they can get involved and help in school.

Get Involoved

bbrewer117 — 2021-09-13 01:31:25 UTC

Get involve in the community your school is located in. Promote involved for parents and students.

Team Building

sinthalangsy — 2021-09-13 01:58:12 UTC

I went to a Catholic School when I was younger where we attended mass every day. This was rough for someone in the first grade, however we were each assigned a "Prayer Buddy" from an upper grade. This "Prayer Buddy" was someone who we looked up to that encouraged us to behave well, as well as someone that would help us with schoolwork and learning activities. I think that having a Reading Buddy like this would be perfect for engagement throughout the school, and even community.

Physical Environment

sinthalangsy — 2021-09-13 02:01:27 UTC

I absolutely love the idea of having sensory bins and accessories throughout the classroom. I think that this would help students to stay focused without distracting others, as well as a way for students to destress in the classroom.

Nurturing

sinthalangsy — 2021-09-13 02:04:24 UTC

A nurturing teacher does not have to be someone who coddles their students, but rather someone who makes them feel safe. It is important to make an effort to regularly check in on each student so that they feel like more than just a student in the system.

I really like the idea of Class Dojo! This is a great way to get a large group of people to communicate and participate. The teacher can post challenges for students and their families to complete in a fun way.

sinthalangsy — 2021-09-13 02:06:58 UTC

School-Wide

sinthalangsy — 2021-09-13 02:12:36 UTC

My elementary school hosted an event called "Academic Museum" every year. Each grade level would be given a topic relative to something that the students have learned that year (natural disasters, bodies of water. birds, etc.). Then, each student would create a well-rounded research project on that topic. I researched the Bee Hummingbird in the third grade, so I created a diorama of a Bee Hummingbird, as well as an essay and various other pieces required. On the day of Academic Museum, the students displayed their projects throughout the halls of the school as families and friends gathered to walk through the Museum of our school.

Team Building in the classroom

Melynn97 — 2021-09-16 22:33:20 UTC

I think its great to play team building games games frequently through out the year, especially during the beginning of the year. This helps strengthen the relationships between students. This will help them feel more comfortable with one another. When students are comfortable they are more willing to work with each other during group work and I think have a more enjoyable experience.

Physical Enviroment

Melynn97 — 2021-09-16 22:37:28 UTC

Your classroom should be inviting, welcoming, and feel safe. Personally in my classroom I want flex seating. I only want a couple of desks and then would prefer to have a variety of different seating options. I want my classroom to feel like, "home away from home." Personally I don't like the bright florescent lights in classrooms, so I will have a lot of lamps in my room instead. I always LOVED the classes that utilized lamps when I was in high school and I feel like I just enjoyed being in there more.

Safe and Secure Enviroment

Melynn97 — 2021-09-16 22:41:06 UTC

I want my students to feel safe in my classroom. Setting clear expectations about behavior and a no bully tolerance is important. I will let my students know that I am always here for them if they need to talk and will be there is they need me. I will have an open door and if they just need a safe place to sit before school starts or during their lunch they are always welcome to sit in my classroom!

Nurturing Teacher

Melynn97 — 2021-09-16 22:43:56 UTC

In my classroom I want to have a cabinet filled with extra food/snacks and school supplies. It is hard to learn when your tummy is growling and you are hungry. I want my students to get some food if they need it so they can be successful. I will also have extra school supplies for students who cannot afford it. Some teachers are not understanding to the fact that students cannot afford school supplies, so I want to be able to help my students so they have what they need, even if its for another class.

Parent-Involved Classroom

Melynn97 — 2021-09-16 22:45:22 UTC

Parent involvement always looks a little different in high school. Being an FCS teacher, I think it would be awesome to have parents come in and share about their job/occupation. They could share experiences, how they got there, and students could learn a lot!

School-Wide Communities

Melynn97 — 2021-09-16 22:48:20 UTC

Being involved in your school events and showing up to support your students is a great way to build community. Your students will be so excited to see you and it will help build relationships. I had teachers offer extra credit to people who showed up to events or participated in dress up days. That's a great way to motivate your students to be involved and show school spirit!

Diversity/ Culture

2022-02-07 20:35:59 UTC

I believe a great way to team build with the school and community is to learn about different cultures. Overall, when students learn about different cultures and theirs are valued, they are connected to the classroom.

Students Involved

2022-02-07 20:37:24 UTC

I believe students should be involved with setting up spaces in the physical environment. Following that, if a teacher were to redecorate, they could ask students for their input. Overall, this is their classroom too!

Relax centers

2022-02-07 20:40:49 UTC

For my classroom I would create a center for students who are overwhelmed or really just need some alone time. This center will have a 15 minute time period where students either get to read, meditate, color or just do puzzles.

Check ups

2022-02-07 20:42:00 UTC

In my classroom I will ensure to do monthly checkups with each of my students to not only see how their doing academically but mentally. This overall, builds a trusting relationship between teacher and student.

Career day

2022-02-07 20:42:53 UTC

I would have a career day where students can have their caregivers, older siblings come and talk about what they do for work.

Weekly picture PowerPoint for parents

2022-02-08 01:42:28 UTC

I currently do this with my SPED student as I’m a paraprofessional. We take pictures of the students engaging in different types of activities like using manipulatives during math or using decoding strategies for reading. This is not only show parents that the students are using/doing different things to learn/ practice the material but that we also care about them looking into their kids daily educational life. What were really don’t think about is that parents don’t know what goes on in their students day or what it looks like to use a manipulative to solve a math problem. The pictures give them a little insight on what it is we’re doing us teachers but also how their students are do you doing so many different things to learn the material while also being engage. Maria Garcia

Physical Environment

2022-02-08 16:28:42 UTC

Include plenty of student artwork within the the whole classroom and encourage creativity throughout lessons and learning.

Nurturing Teacher

2022-02-08 16:44:52 UTC

Take an interest in a students' outside activities and ask them about their lives outside of school. This will show that the teacher is caring for who they are when they are not in a learning environment.

Karen Valero- I think that setting a cultural theme for each month school wide would not only teach cultural diversity but give students and their families the opportunity to showcase customs/celebrations or artifacts that are important to them.

2022-02-08 20:37:13 UTC

by: Karen Valero - I feel that a more relaxed environment with warm lighting and different areas to move around to is essential for students. The room should not be over decorated but instead showcase the students work. All items should be easily accessible and designated areas and centers should be kept practical , functional and clean as to not overstimulate the learners thinking.

2022-02-08 20:41:23 UTC

2022-02-08 20:52:21 UTC

Karen Valero-A safe and secure environment can mean many things. Ensuring students are aware of the rules of citizenship are important. Also, a teacher should create a "me zone" for students who need to take a break from others and find a way to regroup. In addition to that, teachers should develop a system where they know how their students are feeling throughout the day. This could be done by using emoji cards to represent the students mood on their desk. If the teacher notices that a particular student doesn't change their mood card, the teacher can then check in with the student.

Family Collage

2022-02-08 21:50:35 UTC

When I worked in a Daycare classroom, each child had a picture of them with their family. So, my idea is that there will be a "Ms. Florence's Families" Wall! Each student will come to school on the second week with a family picture, no matter what their families look like! Foster, blended, single mom, grandparents, aunts and uncles, LGBTQ+, etc. The goal is to physically show students that everybody's family is different and that its okay to be different!

Small Gifts

2022-02-08 21:52:31 UTC

I think on especially difficult weeks, or even just a random day out of the month, teacher's deserve a little extra something. Like, catered lunch or a candy bouquet. Things like that. I believe the sunshine committee handles things like that.

Family Day

2022-02-08 21:54:35 UTC

A lot of schools have Donuts with Dad or Grandparents Day, or Mornings with Mom. Stuff like that, and a lot of kids have to miss out on those moments. I think a teacher could have a prize where if her class gets x amount of class points for good behavior or good deeds in the classroom, like a classroom tally, they can have family lunch! The people who are considered family to these students can come have pizza in the classroom!

Cultural Dinner Nights!

2022-02-08 21:57:23 UTC

I think a good idea would be like a family spaghetti dinner night. The cafeteria gets converted into an old fashioned Italian restaurant and the 5th grade students and teachers get to play restaurant and serve families. Of course they'd also get to eat. Also! This could be done with all the grade levels and multiple different cultures too! Maybe every couple months or even every month, the schools could do a different restaurant with a signature meal from a different culture!

Parent Read Aloud

eturcios2 — 2022-02-09 01:28:06 UTC

To have a parent involved classroom, I can have parents to come into the classroom and read aloud a book. As I am becoming an ESL teacher, I know that my parents may not be speak English. As a result, I can allow parents to bring their books from their language and read aloud to the students still, and have their child translate. This makes the students who know the language feel involved, but also open their peer's view of other languages and cultures.

Participating in outside activties that help the community

eturcios2 — 2022-02-09 03:16:24 UTC

I am refering to the district I attended, where teachers would go to the nearby neighborhoods at school and provide students with books and new school supplies. Since my school happened to be a title one school, the supplies teachers would give to the families would be beneficial since many parents may not have the money to put in for the following year. This also includes books, which are so importan for students and allows them engage with texts during the summer or break.

Positive Learning Environment

eturcios2 — 2022-02-09 03:58:36 UTC

I can promote a positive learning environment by being a welcoming teacher. This can be done by starting off on the right foor with my students, asking them how they personally with certain subjects, and letting them know that I will work with them so that they not only develop their academic skills, but become more confident in themselves.

Reviewing how I structure my classroom

eturcios2 — 2022-02-09 04:06:09 UTC

One of the ways I plan on promoting a safe and secure environment is by creating a drawing plan of my classroom. Review material I will use in the class that wont harm my students and will also be easy access for them. This includes having certain items such as blocks, counters, at the students reach, but possible having items such as scissors out of reach. Scissors can be given out when student need them as students may use it to harm others or cut their hair.

Organized and interactive walls

eturcios2 — 2022-02-09 04:08:55 UTC

One of the best ways to promote student engagement in the classroom is by showing off their work. Teachers usually tend to decorate most of their walls, and whiile I find that to be awesome, I think it would benefit my students with having the ability to put up their own work on the walls. It gives them the idea that their voice is important and that they are being heard. I remember always feeling proud when I would see my projects on the wall!

"Morning with Moms" or "Donuts with Dad"

eturcios2 — 2022-02-09 04:24:48 UTC

The following ideas described can be used to have students bond with their parents in a school environment. Parents are able to not only strengthen their bond with their child but can also create connections with their teachers. This allows for parents to talk to the teacher about their children's academic and become more involved in their child's academics as well. As for the teachers, it allows for them to learn about their student's backgrounds!

Nurturing Teacher

2022-02-09 17:55:41 UTC

Karen Valero- I think that getting to know each individual student and knowing their likes, dislikes, fears and their culture can help the teacher see each students as an individual. I plan on spending two days a week where I eat lunch in the classroom with 3 to 4 students just to talk about things they like. I also believe it gives them an opportunity to share in a more relaxed environment. I also believe that being a nurturing teacher means helping other colleagues. Being supportive with staff can go a long way.

Family Inclusion

2022-02-09 18:04:11 UTC

I plan on communicating with parents through something like ParentSquare that allows texting in order to update parents about what we will be covering in class weekly. I will also communicate information through the students planner that will need to be signed every day. I will create assignments that allow for parent involvement if it is possible. For those parents who are unable to participate or work multiple jobs I can create zoom meetings or have them join into a class activity or performance via zoom so students and parents can participate together.

FUN FUN FUN!

2022-02-09 18:29:20 UTC

I remember when I was in school there was lots of community events going on even though I attended a low income school. I enjoyed them so much. I think chili cook offs and pie walks are awesome in addition I like having carnivals to give students the opportunity to have fun at a low expense. free family movie night in the gym is also a great way to build community.

Open House

mmckee18 — 2022-02-09 20:51:40 UTC

Encourage parents and students to attend open house nights so there is an opportunity to meet with parents face-to-face, make clear to them your goals, classroom expectations, and procedures.

Having a space for students

jgutierrez254 — 2022-02-09 21:12:34 UTC

Something that I thought would fit into the idea f promoting the physical environment is keeping the classroom open enough so that students have the opportunity to move around. I think something that can help with this is for students to have a space to store and organize their belonging in the classroom.

Events

Audrey Holder - In my classroom, I want to incorporate different activities where parents can talk about their careers and culture. I think involving families in units that talk about culture and careers can be a great way to include parents. I also want to utilize times when parents can volunteer in the classroom.

School-Wide Communities

2022-02-12 17:10:37 UTC

Audrey Holder - I think a great way to strengthen the school community is to host different activities where the students and parents can get involved. At my elementary school, the school hosted movie nights, fall festivals, and field days. These activities were a great way for students to get involved with the school in a positive and fun way!

Jessenia Golsan- I believe any activity to create a community to support and get to know one another would necessary. I was thinking of including stations just as we do with our students and have a different activity or game it could be a short game of charades while another station has as simple as pin the tail on donkey game to get some laughs. Team building is about letting go and coming together to get to know one another in my opinion.

2022-02-12 21:31:59 UTC

Jessenia Golsan- As a future art teacher I will use the physical environment to set the mood for whatever we want to promote. My goal is to always promote diversity and inclusivity and would like to come up with ways to include all of my students personal items to allow them to feel like this is their second home. It could be anything or even a picture or drawings of their families, pets, and or items their parents would be okay with seeing when they visit.

2022-02-12 21:36:03 UTC

Jessenia Golsan- I believe in a safe and secure environment that can include drills for lockdowns or in case of a fire. My thoughts go toward bullying in schools and how I would love to promote rules to be kind to one another! I would have canvases with these rules large enough so that all students can see them to feel safe and secure in the classroom.

2022-02-12 21:40:17 UTC

Jessenia Golsan- Nurturing can come easy to some more than others. I would like to think that it is like second nature to me and I go out of my way to make everyone comfortable around me. I would love to have days where I could discuss with parents what would be an appropriate snack or fruit that can go home with them. I would love to set up a market with fruits and artworks to have my students and families visit me outside the classroom as well. Maybe this could be part of the school community as well.

2022-02-12 21:44:13 UTC

Jessenia Golsan- For the parent involved classroom community could be anything from sharing important culture stories with my students each month. Parents can choose something educational or simply read a story to the class to be involved with their kids and or relatives. This can always turn into a artwork assignment to see how much students enjoyed what they learned from the parent that month.

2022-02-12 21:49:10 UTC

Jessenia Golsan- I love the idea of having our own little carnival that can help raise awareness or go towards a school fundraiser. I still remember how special it was to go to a small school ran carnival with my grandmother when I was in Elementary. I think this would be great opportunity for everyone to join in and have some fun as community.

2022-02-12 21:51:37 UTC

Support other programs

2022-02-13 18:50:26 UTC

I think a big way to team build is to support other programs.. For example, as a future band director, getting support from some coaches, especially football, would be amazing. I would do the same. Support theater, choir, art, football. Even UIL academics. When other teachers see you supporting them, I feel like most would want to reciprocate.

Get your students involved!

2022-02-13 18:53:16 UTC

One thing that I liked when I was part of the leadership in my band was being involved on decorating the band hall, and making student goals for the season.

Student comment box/mail

cfuka — 2022-02-13 18:58:06 UTC

I like the idea of getting teacher mail on top of having after-school open-door hours. I think the mail is important, in case students cannot stay after school, but they have concerns to address. I would like to know if there is a situation that is stressing them out, if I can help in anyway.

Weekly online survey/check-in

cfuka — 2022-02-13 19:00:58 UTC

I like the idea, especially in high school where most students now have electronics, of doing an online google form check-in. How are my students doing? How are they doing with practicing? How is everything at home? Are they getting enough sleep? If my students are okay, they will be able to pay attention better.

Weekly parent emails

cfuka — 2022-02-13 19:03:32 UTC

I would like to send out an email weekly, updating them on what we are doing in the classroom. This would also include the yearly calendar (every week) so that I know that parents are getting notified about concerts. In these emails, I would also include how parents can be involved, what booster events are happening, if we need chaperones.

Donate

cfuka — 2022-02-13 19:07:25 UTC

I like the idea of having the school get involved to raise money for certain charities. My school was involved with Relay for Life, which raises money for cancer. Imagine if the whole school got involved, having different booths to raise the most money.

Brittnie Boliver

2022-02-13 19:35:08 UTC

I think it would be great for the students to be able to see their work hung up around the room.

Brittnie Boliver

2022-02-13 19:36:41 UTC

I think having the students know what to do in case of an emergency is important. So by constructing drills every so often.

Social Opportunities

dvanhelden — 2022-02-14 02:28:35 UTC

One thing that I remember fondly from elementary school are the spaghetti socials. This is exactly what it sounds like. The teachers, students, and stakeholders would gather in the evening, eat spaghetti and socialize. It was also so much fun and I know so many relationships were built.
-Darren Van Helden

Physical Environment

dvanhelden — 2022-02-14 02:30:45 UTC

One thing I know for a fact I want to do in my classrooms is make it feel homey. Through the use of soft lighting, soft colors, and lots of memories I will make my classroom a place that is physically appealing so my students can feel comfortable.

Nurturing Teacher

dvanhelden — 2022-02-14 02:33:55 UTC

In high school, I had several teachers who would do something called a talking circle. It was an opportunity for the students to share what is going on in their lives. Some students would share happy things, and as time went on and all of the students grew closer the students would share their hardships. This gave the teacher an insight into the lives of the students so they could be there for them.

Parent-Involved Classroom

dvanhelden — 2022-02-14 02:36:02 UTC

While some parents are able to be present in the classroom, the reality is that most cannot. Since this is the case I would like to provide regular updates to parents about what is going on in the classroom. By doing this I am making sure the parents who aren't able to be present in the classroom still feel like they are in the loop.

School-Wide Communities

dvanhelden — 2022-02-14 02:37:22 UTC

I think a good idea to support school wide communities is by doing a student run canned food drive. By doing this the school is making a difference in the community, and the students have a since of ownership of the project.

Team Building

2022-02-19 20:59:10 UTC

One way to create a positive classroom environment would be to have the classroom participate in an activity that would celebrate the various cultures of every child. Do a show and tell where a child can describe their culture themselves. I would do an activity where the child can create a poster depicting their foods, clothes, or holidays they celebrate. We could turn it into a yearly action to observe the different cultures throughout the year, marking another part of everyone's traditions. It can create a positive environment and teach the children to respect that each culture is different and unique in their way.

Team Building

jmartinez1112 — 2022-02-19 21:01:25 UTC

Physical Environment

jmartinez1112 — 2022-02-19 21:50:29 UTC

It is essential to have a great physical environment for the classroom and your students. I want my overall design to accommodate my classroom and provide adequate learning centers. I will need a plan that will organize space, provide furnishings, and maximize materials that will provide opportunities for every child's learning. In a positive environment, my classroom will have a welcoming feeling and establish a cozy home feeling, allowing the students to have a safe physical environment while fostering their learning ability. It should have both the sense of learning and play. Students will be eager to learn and feel comfortable doing it in providing this.

Safe and Secure Environment

jmartinez1112 — 2022-02-20 01:05:05 UTC

In a safe and secure environment, students need to feel an atmosphere to express themselves willingly and free of any criticism. If I want to accomplish this, it is vital to have a safety and emergency preparedness plan, excellent communication with both students and parents, an excellent anti-bullying policy, community/parental involvement, and great support from staff, students, and parents. Doing this will provide tremendous social and emotional skills and an ongoing evaluation and practice of the plan. It will provide conditions where both the children and I can flourish together and make learning fun. If children are in a positive environment, it will encourage and support their learning development.

Nurturing Teacher

jmartinez1112 — 2022-02-20 01:18:12 UTC

A nurturing teacher is essential because it is necessary to be empathetic and understanding towards your students and others. When you practice this and get to know your students, a teacher can focus on the learner's interests. It becomes taking on the role of a parent, but to a certain extent, knowing to understand your students, in making sure everything in their daily lives is going well. Creating an environment of trust encourages the students to learn and assists in their learning tasks. It will motivate students and remove any fear of failure. The students will feel supported by their teachers and peers and boost and build their self-esteem to learn.

Parent-Involved Classroom

jmartinez1112 — 2022-02-20 01:31:41 UTC

When parents and families are involved in their child's education, students benefit academically to ensure their child has the support to succeed in school and the classroom. Although not all parents can participate in the school, keeping the parents up to date in their child's development is crucial. The students and parents must have the full support of their development. I want to create an information board where all parents will have access and feel comfortable contacting me if there are any concerns. When you build these relationships, the teacher and parent can work in unison. Everyone benefits, and the parents will be interested in their child's development and support the teacher.

School-Wide Communities

jmartinez1112 — 2022-02-20 01:49:54 UTC

The most important thing a school can have is the support of its community. I believe a school represents the community, and when the community is involved, it creates a domino effect on the child's learning and education. It is good to have activities and fundraisers that will include the community to capitalize on all cultures and strive to improve the school's cohesiveness and growth, which everyone can be proud of and enjoy. The students will see this and learn from a community that cares. It will create a positive environment that will ensure success for students, teachers, and parents. With so much at our disposal these days in ways of communicating, students can achieve their full potential in their academics and celebrate their accomplishments and teachers, staff, and communities to build cultural traditions, focusing on the students' essential needs to succeed.

Back to School Night

2022-09-19 16:29:40 UTC

A back-to-school night for the teachers where they go to main event and bowl. This is a way to begin the school year and it provides an opportunity for others to get to know each other.

- Breana Prewitt

Theme of School

2022-09-19 16:31:16 UTC

The school has a theme every year to promote a culture. One year it could be happiness and then the next year it could be under the sea.
-Breana Prewitt

Morning Donuts

2022-09-19 16:32:24 UTC

Every Friday morning there could be donuts provided to the teachers. This is a way that the teachers can reconnect with one another and see how everyone is doing.

- Breana Prewitt

Fall Carnival

2022-09-19 16:33:12 UTC

Once a year during fall there could be a carnival. This brings everyone in the school community together.

Social Opportunities

2022-09-19 19:10:21 UTC

I think a great idea is to have a spaghetti night or bingo night to create an environment that everyone can be apart of, parents, students, teachers and the community can participate in raffles, eat and play fun games! - Angela Destiny Foster Newton

Physical Environment

2022-09-19 19:14:22 UTC

I think it's important for students to feel welcomed and supported, so in a dance class I could put up pictures of different cultural dances and make sure that people who are under represented are shown in my classroom. The classroom would probably look more like a dance room so utilizing bins and organizers will be beneficial. - Angela Destiny Foster Newton

Safe and Secure Environment

2022-09-19 19:39:06 UTC

I believe a teacher should be available to students via email, zoom, and after/before school hours, so students feel safe to talk with the teacher privately or with their parents. Teachers can do this by communicating their office hours and encouraging students to email them to make appointments before or after school. I think there should also be an anonymous option that could look like something like a suggestion box or a teacher mailbox, so students know that the teacher will hear them. -Angela Destiny Foster Newton

Nurturing Teacher

2022-09-19 19:43:25 UTC

I think it's vital for students to feel like their teacher cares about them, going back to the basics, learning their names and creating ice breaker games to get to know your student. Knowing their likes, loves, and dislikes is very important and implementing things they like into the curriculum. As a dance teacher I like to do "check-ins" so I can adapt the concepts and skills that I want them to learn based on their day/emotions while still challenging them. - Angela Destiny Foster Newton

Parent - Involved

2022-09-19 19:48:40 UTC

In a dance classroom it can be hard to involve student/parents because the room is usually a gym/shared space so it doesn't feel like a traditional place. With that in mind i think it's important for parents to attend open-house nights and dance teachers to communicate with the parents. I also think students could create a culture/family tree or have a career day and relate that to dance, dance can be many things/or relate it to another form of self expression. - Angela Destiny Foster Newton

Dance/Drill-Team Fundraisers

2022-09-19 20:01:15 UTC

A good idea for drill team we could sell tshirts or tickets for our raffle! Also there's always a spring showoff/concert that dance, drill team and sometimes colorguard will participate in and perform for students, parents, teachers and family and you could also raise money their by having their tickets be 5-10$, It's a good way to have their friends and family show support and an opportunity for other people who've never watched/seen dance, are able to! - Angela Destiny Foster Newton

Team Building

2022-09-21 03:30:08 UTC

We must include parents as much as we can in all activities that involve their children and their community. Conducting community fairs with different organizations that could offer benefits or services to all people in the community. We can also plan to organize a day for students and parents to come spend some time with teachers by doing different activities such as art projects, cooking, games, etc., -Erikca Almaraz Luna

Physical Environment

2022-09-21 03:43:58 UTC

I will try to get to know my student's interest, personality, background knowledge and culture and use that information to set up and organize the classroom so that students feel welcomed and included. -Erikca Almaraz Luna

Safe and Secure Environment

2022-09-21 04:08:37 UTC

The best thing we can do is let our students know we are available to them for when they need someone to talk to. I will encourage students to talk to me personally or even through a letter if that works better them.-Erikca Almaraz Luna

Nurturing Teacher

2022-09-21 04:12:39 UTC

It will be a great idea to organize informal meetings so that teachers talk about their day, what they are struggling in with the most, and listen to others to offer feedback or tips they can implement in their journey as teachers. It will be nice if these meeting took place maybe once or twice a moth, so teachers can create strong relationships with their colleagues. -Erikca Almaraz Luna

Paren-Involved Classroom

2022-09-21 04:17:11 UTC

I will reach out to parents as much as I can. I will also try to let them know about my goals and expectations, so they know I care about their opinion, and their help. Moreover, I will invite them to participate in school and classroom activities and let them know of volunteering opportunities. -Erikca Almaraz Luna

School-Wide Community

2022-09-21 04:27:20 UTC

It will be a good idea to organize an art contest about a trending or controversial topic that could be affecting the community, school, or society and have students represented it through their artistic talents. All children in the community will be encouraged to participate. An event will be hosted to present the participants and so that they can display their artwork. Everyone in the community, not just in the school, will be encouraged to attend to admire the art pieces. -Erikca Almaraz Luna

Diana Katzianis

2022-09-21 18:06:52 UTC

Once a month, the school librarian would host a book club. Having families come in after school hours and read a book to the kids. The students would be encouraged to dress like a character from their favorite books.

Diana Katzianis

2022-09-21 18:09:16 UTC

Parents always love to feel included in their child's school experience. This is why it is essential to send complementary notes about their child.

Parent Child Fun

2022-09-21 19:59:34 UTC

Allowing parents to come and experience fun activities with their children is one way to involve them in the classroom. I think that arts and crafts are a great time to have parents have fun and be involved. There are many ways to include parents in the classroom and I am glad that can promote school climate.

Compliments

2022-09-21 20:29:41 UTC

I think that complimenting people can help to improve the school climate. Even something about their work ethic or how well their students seem to enjoy their lessons can be counted.

Pep Rally Games

2022-09-21 20:36:39 UTC

Team building games with lots of people can be done at a pep rally. I watched a video recently of a game with a whole team of people competing against other teams. I feel that this can build teamwork between different groups of people.

Christy Newby, How to promote school climate with team building and/ or school community

2022-09-22 15:42:26 UTC

There are a few ways to promote school climate and team building within the school and the school community.
They are the following :
1.Use data that the school gives you to set a particular goal. .
a. discuss with the data analyst on campus the reports she receives about your classroom. If the teacher knows the data, then there can be a goal to do better.
2. Involve other teachers, staff and administrators.
a. Make sure all hands on deck is involved. Do not leave anyone out.
3. Use parent teacher organization to get families involved.
1. Reach out to families, parents and such to get involved with campus activities. For example, a carnival, homecoming, or college week. Do not leave anyone out either.
4. Definitely get students involved.
a. Make sure all students are involved in team building exercises. Try to not leave anyone out in all group activities.
5. Make sure to set goals that are attainable.
a. Make sure that students know all goals, and how to obtain them. The more they know the better.

Team building is for everyone. There is no "I" in team. It takes a team to work together. If the school staff, students and families, and parents are involved, then all will be on the same page. For example, if the school has team events or community events every month, then eventually someone will get on board.

Decorate!

2022-09-22 18:01:16 UTC

As a teacher I want my classroom to be a representation of my students that year. I will start the year by having them do some sort of craft that tells the class about themself. We will them hang these on the wall. As the year goes on we will have more and more work from my students!

Community events

mmorales1916 — 2022-09-22 18:09:12 UTC

Having a school night with board games for kids, a movie, or ice cream, where the kids parents and teachers can all socialize!

Good communication

mmorales1916 — 2022-09-22 18:10:19 UTC

Having a folder that parents are to check every day is a great way to keep daily communication! teachers can write a small note about the students day.

individualized feedback

mmorales1916 — 2022-09-22 18:14:20 UTC

Give students individualized feedback as much as possible. Students can flourish with some one on one time in the classroom.

Set up meeting times

mmorales1916 — 2022-09-22 18:16:03 UTC

As a teacher I want to have meeting times were my students can either zoom, or come in person to talk about any issues they might be having in the classroom.

Community in the classroom

mmorales1916 — 2022-09-22 18:17:41 UTC

Have games where all students can learn more about each other! games are a great way students can create a communiy in our classroom.

2022-09-22 20:17:23 UTC

When my children were in elementary school, there were great moments when parents, students, and school staff got involved in activities that brought us closer. We worked on relevant causes such as cleaning areas around the school or in another area of the city, or we just enjoyed and got closer to each other by playing games where adults and kids participated. So i think these are great ideas. Karen Alves

2022-09-22 20:42:12 UTC

Children feel safe when they feel welcome and respected in the classroom. Let the kids bring something that they like to represent them. For example, when my teacher's son knew he was Brazilian, he asked him to bring to class something to represent his nationality. My son got excited about it. This act brought him closer to the teacher and more comfortable in the classroom. Karen Alves

2022-09-22 20:46:02 UTC

One idea for parents' involvement in the classroom is asking them to come to class to share something about their culture, family, or profession. If they can't go to the classroom, they could send a video, and the teacher would show it to the students. Kids love to show their family to their classmates and teacher. Karen Alves

2022-09-22 20:56:43 UTC

One thing that I think is critical about the physical environment is keeping space for the children. We have to be careful not to leave our classroom cluttered with visuals, furniture, and supplies. Too much can be very distracting and disorganized. Karen Alves

2022-09-22 21:02:25 UTC

Create activities that involve parents inside and outside the classroom. When my kids were in elementary, we had days to play games that involved parents, teachers, and kids. Also, we had moments to clean areas around the school or parks. It helped us create more sense of community and care about the place and its people. Karen Alves

2022-09-22 21:08:33 UTC

To be nurturing teachers, we have to know our students. It is critical to understand their strengths and weakness to be able to care for and encourage them to grow. Talk with the student, observe, and help them trust in you. It will open their mind to receive the message you want to pass. Discover the talent the student has and work on it. They will enjoy being at school and improve their learning. Karen Alves

Team Building

2022-09-22 22:39:11 UTC

Teambuilding is a great way to get to know others and develop relationships. My idea would be for the school to host a back-to-school hotdogs and hamburgers cookout and carnival. There would be various games and things to do that everyone could play and enjoy like cornhole, a giant-sized connect four game, giant Jenga, and much more.
-Yelena Sorensen

Physical Environment

2022-09-22 22:45:13 UTC

Creating the physical environment is one of the most important parts of the learning environment. Part of the physical environment is creating positive relationships among students. My idea would be to have a variety of activities where students engage and play, where they can get to know each other more and have positive experiences with each other.

When I was in elementary school, I remember having cool places to read my books. One idea is to have a reading corner with various pieces of furniture so students can choose where they want to read and feel comfortable while reading.

Another memory I had in elementary school was the teacher having a show-and-tell. We would bring a few items to class and tell our classmates why these items were special, and we could pick one item, and we could leave it on our desk for the rest of the day.
-Yelena Sorensen

Safe and Secure Environment

2022-09-22 22:46:53 UTC

Students are unable to learn if the environment is not secure and safe for them. As a future teacher, I would provide a calming center for all my students to enjoy and have a safe space to relax. Some of the things that I would provide in the calming center are puzzles, beanbags, Play-Doh, coloring books, crayons, stress balls, and toys.
-Yelena Sorensen

Nurturing Teacher

2022-09-22 22:50:21 UTC

Building trust with your students is essential to building a caring and positive classroom community. Being a nurturing teacher who cares about their students is important to ensure students know you are there for them and are there to talk. My idea would be for teachers to have weekly check-ins with their students. I would ask questions related to assignments/activities, the classroom, how they are feeling/doing personally, any questions they would like to ask me, etc.
-Yelena Sorensen

Parents in the Classroom

2022-09-22 22:53:16 UTC

I would create a class newsletter to let parents know what is going on inside the classroom weekly and what students are learning. I would provide parents with a variety of opportunities to be involved and volunteer. Parents could sign up for things that they are available and want to do. Some examples are bringing supplies or materials needed for any activities or projects and letting parents know when there is a classroom party or a field trip so they can volunteer.
-Yelena Sorensen

School-Wide community

2022-09-22 22:59:04 UTC

A fun way to get the school and the community involved would be to plan and create a community garden. It would bring people together and benefit everyone. Once everything is approved and planned, we could invite students, parents, and community members to participate in planting vegetables, herbs, and regular plants in a community garden.
-Yelena Sorensen

rquintanilla11 — 2022-09-23 01:14:39 UTC

Having a pizza night where everyone comes together and enjoys different types of pizza. There can even be movies involved.

rquintanilla11 — 2022-09-23 01:17:42 UTC

Having materials and decorations that are representative of every culture in the classroom.

rquintanilla11 — 2022-09-23 01:20:09 UTC

Creating an environment where students feel comfortable enough to explore their limits and make mistakes. Students should also feel comfortable enough to express themselves without fear of being judged or bullied.

rquintanilla11 — 2022-09-23 01:21:52 UTC

Making connections with your students and getting to know what they are like outside of the classroom. You can also share certain things about yourself outside of being a teacher. Be there for the students that ask for a shoulder.

rquintanilla11 — 2022-09-23 01:23:40 UTC

You can communicate with parents in the languages that they speak. You can also have applications for them to use to access certain events that occur in the classroom and communicate with the teacher. There can also be a parent sign up sheet where they can sign up to volunteer in the classroom.

I think it is so important to have activities that enrich the relationships of the students, the parents and the teachers, and teachers with other teachers. Events such as open house day, meeting the teachers, holiday parties, field day, clubs that meet after school, are great ways to get to know one another better.

pbros — 2023-02-06 23:53:28 UTC

One of the activities our school does every year is a snow ball fight among the school personal, including the principles and the custodial crew, using marshmallows. We each get one person to go after and if we get them out then we take the name they were given. The last person standing wins. The students get a kick out of this and help with strategies and form lookouts. Fun is had by everyone.

Have a Heart Projects

2023-02-08 17:48:06 UTC

This is not my idea, but it's what my kids' school does every year. They pull the students and parents together and every year each grade picks a community non profit to donate to. So this year the first graders are taking all the donations they can get to the animal shelter and the third graders are taking snacks and beverages to the fire station (I think), but all the parents are invited to come as well and help and watch as the students give back to the community that their school is in. I will add that my kids go to a charter school with no bus, so parent involvement is a must as far a chaperoning and transporting students.

Let the kids decorate

2023-02-08 17:53:59 UTC

When the rug is looking kind of warn out and it's time for a new one, what if the students got to pick which new rug was going to be theirs? Pillows, rugs, maybe decoration themes, all those things could be chosen by the class via a poll. I know this couldn't happen every year but if things rotated out when they were worn out. Maybe let students pick where they want to do their work or reading. If you notice none of the students are using a particular piece of furniture, maybe ask them what they want to replace it with that they would like to use.

Student approved rules

2023-02-08 17:58:13 UTC

I think if the students had a say in their classroom rules, procedures for disagreements, ways to privately let the teacher know about anything bothering them, and even knowing that the teacher cares about what bothers them and addresses those issues when they arise are all ways that can help. If we teach our students that differences are what make us special and how to handle conflict with confidence and fairness then a safe environment is possible.

Handle issues as they arise

2023-02-08 18:23:43 UTC

I feel like it's important for teachers to address concerns when they arise and to teach students how to handle situations they are uncomfortable in as soon as they are brought to our attention. We need to listen to our students and show them that we care about what they have to say.

Make multiple opportunities

2023-02-08 18:31:53 UTC

I think if we want parents involved, we need to make sure there are plenty of opportunities and all different focuses as well. Some parents like to cook, let them help with snack days, some like to read, have them come read for story time. If we take the time to find out about the parents, we can find ways to bring them in for "help" and make them feel like they are as important as they are.

Thanksgiving Pot Luck

jvasquez1716 — 2023-02-08 20:34:00 UTC

Again, with my kids' school, but this year they brought back the "Fall Break" Luncheon where all the student/parents brought food from their heritage/culture and all the kids and parents that could go got to make plates of all different foods to try and sit with each other and visit. It was a good time what really pulled all the teachers, students, parents, and even the vice principal in together to visit and make connections.

2023-02-09 10:23:30 UTC

Creating a student ambassador program that allows all levels of participation starting at kindergarten.
-Weaver

Remain open to listen and collaborate with your students as well as their parents. Root out any bias, establish empathy, and be KIND!!!

cwhite3710 — 2023-02-09 15:53:15 UTC

First stay positive when communicating with parents. Always work toward agreement and lastly, be professional in words and conduct.

cwhite3710 — 2023-02-09 15:54:55 UTC

Community Walk or Run

2023-02-09 20:44:19 UTC

The school and community can participate in a local marathon or walk at a local park. In addition, local vendors as art, and food trucks, could be set up along with live music after the marathon has been completed. This could be an annual tradition.

- Anylah Coleman

Culture Day

2023-02-09 20:54:17 UTC

Each classroom could represent a different country from around the world, and that class could be responsible for bringing food, music, and other cultural idea to describe a specific country. I remember doing this in 4th grade; our class represented South Africa, and I made a delicious orange cake; the main ingredient was orange peels.

- Anylah Coleman

Creating a Classroom Creed

2023-02-09 20:58:11 UTC

As a class, we should create a classroom creed that states the rules and regulations of the classroom. This creed serves as a class contract that everyone would follow and cannot be broken.

-Anylah Coleman

Self care

2023-02-09 21:00:54 UTC

For me to be attentive to my students, I have to ensure my needs are met as well, and I am taking care of myself to avoid stress or burnout. Furthermore, as a teacher, I serve as a role model for students. Therefore I must continuously come to school with a positive mindset and healthy outlook to ensure the best for my students.

- Anylah Coleman

Newsletter & Classroom Website

2023-02-09 21:16:55 UTC

I want to ensure that my parents know what is happening in the classroom at all times; therefore, by sending home a monthly newsletter and consistently updating my website, parents can support their child's learning at home.

- Anylah Coleman

Feeder Pattern Nights

2023-02-09 21:25:13 UTC

The district should participate in feeder pattern night, where all elementary, middle, and high schools get together and attend a football game. This will familiarize parents with the various schools within the community.

- Anylah Coleman

Holiday Programs

ttoothaker3 — 2023-02-12 19:00:43 UTC

I think a good way to build School Community is to plan and host Holiday Programs for various holidays during the school year. It would also be beneficial to plan for holidays that are specific to a certain population within the school community, rather than only celebrating the well know holidays.

Display Student's Work

ttoothaker3 — 2023-02-12 19:02:03 UTC

I think a great way to improve the physical environment of the school is to display students' work both within and outside the classroom. This allows for visitors of the school to be able to go to their student's classroom and see what their student has been creating.

Safety and Security Newsletter

ttoothaker3 — 2023-02-12 19:04:02 UTC

One way that families can be made to feel comfortable about the safety and security of their student's school is for the teachers, or the administration office to send out newsletters to the families when changes and improvements involving safety and security take place within the school. This will allow the families to feel as if they are also apart in keeping their students safe.

Teacher Teams/Groups

ttoothaker3 — 2023-02-12 19:06:28 UTC

I think a great way for teachers to feel nourished and in return nourish their students is to be active in teaching groups. When teachers are involved within teaching groups, within their specific grade or subject, they are surrounded by other teachers that are similar goals set for their own classrooms. By working as a team to accomplish these goals, the teachers are able to take what they learn from the group and apply it to their own classroom.

Parent Volunteers

ttoothaker3 — 2023-02-12 19:08:06 UTC

One way that parents can be involved within the classroom is to serve as a parent volunteer. It is important that when parent volunteers come into the classroom, the teachers have a set purpose for them, and the parents are familiar and comfortable with what they are expected to be doing.

Cultural Programs/Groups

ttoothaker3 — 2023-02-12 19:11:07 UTC

One way to promote School-Wide Community involvement is to have cultural groups or groups that are set in place to help students within the school become active in a group that they feel a part of.

Leah Smith-Play Day

2023-02-12 22:08:16 UTC

Pick a Saturday or Sunday before the new school year starts and have a play day. This would be the equivalent of a field day but before the school year starts. This could help new students meet peers that they will see throughout the year, give parents a chance to meet teachers and other parents. The day would be full of games and obstacle course. With it being on a weekend you are more likely to have a better turn out with families.

What does the classroom look like

lsmith7116 — 2023-02-12 22:18:45 UTC

Having a classroom that has students work on display makes students proud. Students love seeing their work on the walls, but they love seeing pictures of them selves. When I worked as a preschool teacher I would take pictures of the students engaged with activities or playing with friends and post them to the walls. They loved seeing themselves and would talk to their friends about what they were doing in the picture; when parents came to pick up they would show them their picture and their work. Having students work on the walls means a lot to a student.

Organization and Rules

lsmith7116 — 2023-02-12 22:21:34 UTC

Having a classroom that is clean and organized helps with the safety of the students. Having students help make the rules of the classroom will also help students with feeling safe and secure.

Recognizing Diversity

2023-09-18 01:04:05 UTC

I think one way I could create a positive community within my classroom is by recognizing and celebrating diversity. I will do this by asking students where they are from, being inquisitive of their cultures and beliefs, and providing an environment that is filled with books, toys, and resources that represent everyone. -Rebecca Lasley

Showcasing Students

2023-09-18 01:06:18 UTC

One important aspect of my classroom will be how I showcase my students' work and accomplishments. Each student will be represented and highlighted multiple times throughout the year. This gives students a purpose and feeling of validation in the classroom! -Rebecca Lasley

Confidence in Confiding

2023-09-18 01:20:00 UTC

It is important for students to feel like they can come to their teachers for help. I would set up a signal for the students such as holding up the number 4 for when they need to tell me something. Also, a box of notes to the teacher will be set up for students to write to me if they feel so inclined. -Rebecca Lasley

Providing a positive environment

2023-09-18 01:22:27 UTC

Teachers must create a welcoming and safe environment for students to feel like taking risks in learning. One way I would do this is by talking about growth mindsets and teaching my students' growth mindset phrases as well as chanting positive affirmations for certain scenarios. -Rebecca Lasley

Building Rapport with Parents

2023-09-18 01:26:09 UTC

I welcome parent involvement, as it will help motivate students to do their best. Parent involvement stimulates support and encourages success in students' school work. I will use REMIND to help parents stay connected with what we are doing at school and with important events coming up. I also like the idea of creating a career day to involve family members of my students inside the classroom while sharing information with others. -Rebecca Lasley

Community Led

2023-09-18 01:30:34 UTC

Community is so important! One way to build community with students and allow them to work on their social skills is through pretend play, class parties, and after-school activities. Pretend play allows students to practice TEKS in real-life scenarios while gaining comradery with peers. Class parties help build communities because every person in the class must work hard to earn the said party. -Rebecca Lasley

Christa Barnet

2023-09-19 00:24:00 UTC

Have something fun or special designed for teachers and staff at least once a month. It can be planned or a surprise. In October, maybe it's a bag of potpourri. In January, maybe it's a hot cocoa bar set up in the teacher's lounge. It can be small and inexpensive or large and extravagent as long as the purpose is to let the teachers and staff know they're seen and appreciated.

cbarnet1 — 2023-09-19 00:25:36 UTC

During inservice each year, host a team building expedition. It could be an escape room, a scavenger hunt on the campus, geocaching, or creating a new recipe together in groups.

cbarnet1 — 2023-09-19 00:26:15 UTC

Have a staff shout out board or a place to nominate or highlight something extra beautiful or extra kind that someone has done on campus.

cbarnet1 — 2023-09-19 00:27:27 UTC

Having students take part in an anonymous check in each morning can help with a safe and caring classroom environment. Even young elementary students can accomplish this with different colored post its and visuals. But this will help teachers gauge how their students are each day and will help the students feel seen and heard.

cbarnet1 — 2023-09-19 00:28:45 UTC

Have periodic get-togethers with the greater school community! Goodies with grands, thanksgiving spreads in classrooms, pen pals, and having mystery monthly readers are all great ways to foster community in a school.

cbarnet1 — 2023-09-19 00:29:39 UTC

Let parents volunteer with different tasks: room parent, copying, cutting, decorating, lunch duty. Parents are often beyond willing to be a helping hand and love to make sure their kids and their kids' teacher are well taken care of!

Evelyn Bretado

2023-09-19 03:23:41 UTC

"Donut with a grown up" would be a great way to bring either parents, guardians, or grandparents into the classroom. Students will be able to introduce their friends to their loved ones and many students can learn from one another.

Megan Jaramillo

2023-09-20 02:03:41 UTC

A community potluck or picnic before the school year. Everyone can contribute food and engage in conversations and playing games.

mjaramillo61 — 2023-09-20 02:09:22 UTC

Making the classroom a fun and welcoming environment with plants and a place the students can display their work. Also allowing students to decorate their own spaces to make them feel comfortable.

mjaramillo61 — 2023-09-20 02:12:54 UTC

Each morning before the students come in have them point to a face that they are feeling that day and if they would like a hug, a high five, or nothing at that time. Once class has started ask the students to give a short response how their weekend or evening went.

mjaramillo61 — 2023-09-20 02:16:23 UTC

Having some goodies for the teacher in the morning to brighten their day could change the whole mood for that day. Also having collaborative planning time can help teachers share lesson plans and best practices.

mjaramillo61 — 2023-09-20 02:21:01 UTC

Having curriculum nights with the parents can help the parents experience a mini version of their child's school day. Another thing is having homework and study support that shares resources and strategies with parents that are struggling to help their child with their homework.

mjaramillo61 — 2023-09-20 02:22:40 UTC

Having school field trips around the community to learn about it and have a fun experience.

Aide Sanchez

2023-09-20 15:15:34 UTC

First day back to school - breakfast.
It will be fun if each parent sign up to bring any type of food, and we can all gather in the cafeteria and talk for at least 30 min getting to know each other.

Aide Sanchez

2023-09-20 15:17:42 UTC

Art work appreciation
Have a board filled with all of their art work, and it will change every month depends on the season.

Aide Sanchez

2023-09-20 15:19:48 UTC

Each student will have the opportunity to sign up a meeting with their professor to discuss any concerns, or just to talk and get to know each other more. At least every 2 months.

Aide Sanchez

2023-09-20 15:20:51 UTC

Positive notes.

Students love making notes, and drawings for their teacher.

Aide Sanchez

2023-09-20 15:22:19 UTC

Book group.
Parents will come to class to discuss the student's reading skills, read a book, and to get to know other parents, and the teacher.

Aide Sanchez

2023-09-20 15:24:44 UTC

Halloween Trunk or Treat
It will be fun seeing students have fun dressing up, interact with other students, and teachers.

Weekly Programs

2023-09-21 22:50:04 UTC

Jaira Corpuz
In one of the schools I subbed at they had a program every Friday where parents come in and each grade level will meet at the cafeteria. During this Friday program the principal will announce amazing things that went on that week, recognize students who have gone above and beyond, and also share any upcoming events parents can join. Each grade also has a chant that they do which was always fun to watch. I think this was a great program. Plenty of parents came every week and that students LOVED it.

Selena Spencer: Team Building

2023-09-23 07:13:12 UTC

One team-building activity I enjoyed participating in is The Human Knot. In our case, the host added a third rule, which was that we could not talk during the activity. We had to figure out ways to communicate using facial expressions and body gestures. Needless to say, my team did not win :)

Selena Spencer: Showcase Student Diversity

2023-09-23 07:19:59 UTC

I would like to showcase diversity in my future classroom by posting pictures on a wall of each student with a caption of how they say hello in their language.

Selena Spencer: Safe and Secure Environment

2023-09-23 07:29:02 UTC

I would like for my future classroom to be an emotionally and socially safe and secure place for each of my students to interact and learn.

Selena Spencer: Nurturing Teacher

2023-09-23 07:33:52 UTC

I am a very nurturing person. I will model this quality to my students in my future classroom with the expectation that they will treat each other the same nurturing way I treat them.

Selena Spencer: Parent-Involved Classroom

2023-09-23 07:39:55 UTC

The thought just came to mind that I could ask parents how they want to be involved in their child's classroom. I could send out an email with a list of upcoming lessons and school events and ask them in what capacity they could serve.

Selena Spencer: School - Wide Communities

2023-09-23 07:47:29 UTC

The school I work in just finished a fundraising event called Boosterthon. It was a school-wide event in which students raised money for our school based on the number of laps they walked around the gymnasium. There were many child-friendly activities and challenges that had them hyped about reaching their contribution goals.

Team building

2023-09-23 17:18:31 UTC

Three distinct ways we can build community in our schools and school community are:

1.Foster collaboration: Provide opportunities for students and community members to work together on projects or initiatives. This could involve group assignments, extracurricular activities, or community programs. Encourage individuals to leverage their unique strengths and skills, and emphasize the importance of teamwork and cooperation.

2. Organize team-building activities: Plan and facilitate team-building activities that promote trust, cooperation, and problem-solving. These activities can range from icebreaker games, trust-building exercises, or group challenges. Consider organizing events such as sports tournaments, talent shows, or community clean-up days, which bring people together in a fun and engaging manner.
3.Promote diversity and inclusion: Embrace and celebrate the diversity within the school and community. Encourage individuals from different backgrounds, cultures, and abilities to participate and contribute. Create an inclusive environment where everyone feels valued and respected, fostering a sense of belonging and unity.

Mahalia Brantley

2023-09-23 20:46:57 UTC

I believe teachers should create a safe and positive environment for their students. Teachers can do this is by creating classroom expectations together at the beginning of the school year.

Amy Koperski

2023-09-24 17:47:15 UTC

A team building activity could be many things throughout the year. I think doing a project within the school community every 4-6 months or for holidays would be a great way to get everyone together. It could be making decorating for a school dance, holiday or fixing things up at the school.

Amy Koperski

2023-09-24 18:00:26 UTC

I think physical environment should be positive, fun, and welcoming. In my classroom , hall or even other places in the school I think students work should be posted for others to see and parents!

Amy Koperski

2023-09-24 18:08:16 UTC

A Safe and Secure Environment is very important to have in a school/classroom. I think in order to do so you need to build relationships with your students and trust. Always pay attention to each student, check up on them and make sure they know you are here for them.

Amy Koperski

2023-09-24 18:21:56 UTC

To nurture teachers I believe once a week or twice a month teachers should get together and have a lunch/dinner, games, positive notes up for everyone to read, and/or a meeting to acknowledge everyones hard work.

Amy Koperski

2023-09-24 18:25:30 UTC

Parent- Involved Classroom can be coming in for parties/helping decorate for them, weekly snack parents, a parent comes to read a book to students once a week.. etc. Parents can be involved in any way you want them to be in your classroom!

Amy Koperski

2023-09-24 18:32:47 UTC

Building a school wide community can be done by doing many things. I think a great one is holiday parties/fairs or dances. Getting everyone together to make food, decorate, create games, raise money gets everyone involved.

Parent involvement in the Classroom -Rochelly

renamoradopaz — 2023-09-24 20:17:33 UTC

A great way to involve parents in the classroom is to have them volunteer with class field trips, sports day, carnival day at school, and career day!

Team Building - Rochelly

renamoradopaz — 2023-09-24 20:22:38 UTC

A great way to start the school year is by creating a positive environment for all teachers and staff. Have team building games, raffles, rotations, and support tools for the teachers. Allowing the staff to get to know one another and work together will strengthen their school community.

Physical Environment- Rochelly

renamoradopaz — 2023-09-24 20:24:50 UTC

A great way to create a positive and welcoming environment is by decorating the classroom nice and organized. Students should feel welcomed and at home once they enter the room. The decorations should represent all students and equality. A welcoming classroom and space will allow the students to feel safe.

Safe and secure environment- Rochelly

renamoradopaz — 2023-09-24 20:26:56 UTC

Practicing drills is important, but first we should educate the students on the importance of why it matters. If the students have knowledge and practice they will know what to expect, instead of being scared and overwhelmed. Teachers must protect the students at all time!

Nurturing Teacher- Rochelly

renamoradopaz — 2023-09-24 20:28:43 UTC

The students and teachers are able to connect by building connections. The teachers can give the students support and positive feedback, affirmations, and rewards.

School wide communities -Rochelly

renamoradopaz — 2023-09-24 20:30:43 UTC

When I was younger we had to sell chocolate boxes to raise money for our school. My mom would help me go from door to door to sell the candy. She was really involved in my school activities. Parents love to be involved and help out when the school and the teacher communicate with them. They can assist in the school events!

Tailgate

stalbott2 — 2023-09-24 23:08:44 UTC

Team/Community Building: Our school does A LOT for team building and community building! One of the funnest things we do and we do it every year is a tailgate party for the entire community for homecoming! It's a big cookout and everyone is invited and the superintendent is there and all the staff. Our students, staff, and community look forward to it every year.

-Shelby Talbott

Classroom Design

stalbott2 — 2023-09-24 23:15:32 UTC

Physical Environment: I believe that classroom design is one of the biggest aspects for physical environment. The classrooms should be inviting and comforting. As a mother and as a student, at meet the teacher night I've always kind of judged my opinion on that teacher's classroom. When a room is warm and inviting, I've always believed that the teacher's personality matches their room.

-Shelby Talbott

Open door policy

stalbott2 — 2023-09-24 23:23:02 UTC

Safe and Secure Environment: I know that counselors are traditionally ones that deal with students who are having problems. However, counselors have also been given a great deal of responsibilities and don't have all the time in the world to just sit down and talk with students. I feel like if we could have a room designated for students to go and talk someone at any time they need would be super beneficial. I also know that some students get the brush off or cold shoulder so they don't feel like they can communicate, therefore they don't feel safe. Maybe have seniors switch out periods for middle school students, college students for the high school. An outside source that won't be biased towards students.

-Shelby Talbott

Bi-weekly Check ins

stalbott2 — 2023-09-24 23:44:54 UTC

Nurturing Teacher: I think it would be great for teachers to have bi-weekly individual check ins with students. (weekly is asking a lot) The check ins could give the student an opportunity to discuss anything they're struggling with, worried about, issues with other students, anything at all. A lot of students don't feel comfortable talking about things in front of their peers and this would allow them a way to speak freely and openly.

-Shelby Talbott

Personal Letters and Newsletters

stalbott2 — 2023-09-24 23:53:45 UTC

Parent-Involved Classroom: I love the idea of having newsletters sent out to parents about what is happening for the week and what is upcoming. I think it would be a great idea at the end of each 9 weeks to send home a letter to each student's parents. Of course positive things should be included, but also any concerns the teacher may or behavior/focus issues. Small things that tend to get overlooked or missed by parents. For myself I want to know if my child is acting appropriately and respectively to their teacher and peers.

-Shelby Talbott

Back to School parties

stalbott2 — 2023-09-24 23:57:57 UTC

School Wide Community: I love back to school parties! It's a casual environment that allow new students and parents meet everyone with no pressure.

-Shelby Talbott

Casey Neu- Teambuilding

2023-09-25 00:59:49 UTC

There are several simple things one could do to encourage team building. Like a monthly grade level/department lunch where everyone group orders UberEats. Or one day a month when teachers eat with their students in the cafeteria.

Casey Neu- Physical Environment

2023-09-25 01:03:43 UTC

In the classroom, multiple cultures and backgrounds should be represented through flags or posters. In addition, walls should be decorated with students' work, like crafts or coloring pages, and personally, I believe a decorated door is a must to invite students into the classroom and show off seasonal crafts.

Casey Neu- Safe and Secure Environment

2023-09-25 01:06:00 UTC

Implement a quiet, reading corner for students to relax in. Show students how things work, like the lock on the door, or the fire alarms. Warn students about safety drills at the beginning of the year, then again before one is scheduled.

Case Neu- Nurturing Teacher

2023-09-25 01:07:47 UTC

Provide students with positive reinforcement, and believe in their potential to learn. Give time and patience to 'slower' learners and understand they will hit benchmarks on their own schedule.

Casey Neu- Parent Involved Classoom

2023-09-25 01:09:20 UTC

Send home weekly emails briefly overviewing the concepts to be taught. Ensure you are reaching out about student achievement/lack thereof regularly.

Casey Neu- School-Wide Communities

2023-09-25 01:11:14 UTC

Hang posters of upcoming school events in the classroom. Use buddy programs where older students are assigned a younger student and help them complete a project/task.

Melissa Galaviz

2023-09-25 02:20:39 UTC

The physical environment depends on the colorful decor, furniture, and overall space of the classroom. Students would rather walk into a class full of color that displays their workmanship than a bland white colored class. Im sure theres studies to prove a colorful/item fulled class promotes learning. But also, the class must be kept ordely so the physical work can display what is going on in their minds.

Abigail Longoria- Team building

2024-02-02 23:21:49 UTC

I have been a long-term substitute before, and from what I've seen, things that can work as team-building are having meetings with other teachers to come up with plans and just learning to help each other out when there are things to plan for. Another thing that could work is finding activities that can be done with teachers or students, and having a designated time and place for that. Sometimes, schools have times in which teachers would stay during a half day, and there would be prizes and games to do as a way to collaborate with other teachers.

Classroom Reflects the Students

bseefried — 2024-02-04 20:28:48 UTC

The students in your classroom are all different, in their needs, learning styles, cultures, and identities. The classroom culture and environment need to be a reflection of the students in your classroom currently. In doing so I believe the teacher needs to have students/families fill out a survey about themselves. This gives the teacher a better understanding of the students within her classroom, and can now gear the room around the student's cultures, goals, and accomplishments. This is important for students to feel a sense of belonging where they need to grow and learn the given content.

Calm Down/Cozy Cornors

bseefried — 2024-02-04 20:35:09 UTC

I have seen this strategy to support classroom behaviors, and I think they are a great addition to the classroom. This gives students a sense of place and belonging, even if they are having a difficult time getting through. Students perform much better when they are given the necessary tools to achieve. These areas around the room allow students to separate their work from comfort. Giving chances to clear your mind and come back to work energized and ready to perform higher than before will happen with these areas being added to your classroom.

Connections with the Community

bseefried — 2024-02-04 20:39:29 UTC

Connecting with the community will help your students with real-world problems through the content you are teaching. While teaching a unit on culture/identities in ELA, the teacher can reach out to the community and see if any members are willing to speak to the class about a certain topic. Showing the class a real-world example will allow them to connect the lesson to what is being taught more easily when given a reason of importance.

Effective

bseefried — 2024-02-04 20:45:24 UTC

A nurturing teacher turns into an effective teacher. Students need a lack of biases when they step into your classroom. For students to perform at their greatest potential they need to see the teacher actually caring about their well-being and not the grade associated with their name. I have seen so many teachers focused on STAAR scores that they lose sight of what really matters and that's the kids. If the student is not given the compassion for their learning/ trying then they will not perform. The teacher's energy will be matched by the students, so think about how you are coming off to your classes who are not performing as expected.

First Week Calls

bseefried — 2024-02-04 20:52:12 UTC

Teachers need to make an effort to the relationships with their student's parents. In the schools I have worked in all required teachers to make phone calls to all of the student's parents by the end of the first week. This gave teachers the opportunities to start communication with their parents, to extend a hello, and to explain how the school year will go in your classroom. This is the time to talk about expectations the teacher has with the class and individual students. The parents need to be aware of the teacher's rules and expectations, so there is no confusion when the teacher follows through on their consequences. The calls within the the first two weeks are crucial in your teacher-parent communication.

Make Students Aware

bseefried — 2024-02-04 21:00:03 UTC

School-wide communities are important for students to have a community outside of the classroom and home life. Teachers need to be aware of what programs and clubs the school has and have a place for students to go to in the classroom or online that has all these resources. There are so many throughout the school that students do not know about unless they are told about them. Growing up I had a certain class community that I felt a sense of belonging to, but I did not know of all the other clubs and groups there were outside of that class that I could have been a part of. Looking back I wish some of my teachers talked about it, and gave their class suggestions for different outside-of-school groups. Meaning as teachers we need to make sure all students are aware of the different clubs or groups that students might relate to and find people who are interested in the same things as us.

Skylar Saldivar

2024-02-05 20:26:04 UTC

In team building with the school and/or community, I think it may be important to consistently hold events within the school that allows for everyone to connect with each other on a regular basis. Events like fundraisers, PTA get-togethers, carnivals, and field days, all can play a part in building a like-minded community and fostering a sense of togetherness within a school.

Desree Barfoot

2024-02-06 02:27:19 UTC

I would like to implement lunch dates with my students to get to know them better. The stronger relationships you can build with your students the safer they are going to feel in your presence.

Breanna Ramos

2024-02-06 02:28:30 UTC

I love team building activities where we are able to make our team feel like a family! I feel like this is the first step to a good work environment because a lot of the time we have an inner bias on everyone we meet! We might immediately think someone is a “rude” or “mean” person based off the simple look on their face and this is not always the case. You really need to get to know one another before judgment and I think crazy activities such as a dance competition for a prize or rely races against teams are great ideas. Silly games that make us feel like children all over again are my favorite ways to team bond!

Bianca Olivas

2024-02-07 04:18:43 UTC

Being a nurturing teacher is vital because it helps children open up and feeling safe and comfortable in the classroom. It also sets the standard that teachers are supposed to be nurturing, so students can tell the difference between kindness and toxicity. If teachers show students that they believe in them, it helps students to learn to believe in themselves.

Katelyn Masingale

2024-02-07 22:27:39 UTC

Team building within the school community should be something that happens throughout the year. Beginning before the school year, teachers from a school can get together to discuss the new year, but most importantly, to get to know one another more sincerely. Teachers within the same content should especially focus on community building to help each other with resources. These types of meetings should be fairly regular with teachers (perhaps a couple of times a year) and should be focused on community, and shared interest. It does not have to be anything special, maybe there is a new theme or activity for each meeting. Either way, it is a way for teachers to understand the team they work in a more personal way.

Katelyn Masingale

2024-02-07 22:35:19 UTC

The physical environment is extremely important for the students. In my future classroom, I plan to have a mixture of encouraging and inspiring posters and pictures on the walls. For example, I want to include different career paths within science, as well as posters or pictures of famous scientists making sure to include lots of women, people of color, and other minorities. I want everyone to know they can do anything. I also want to provide reminders to help students' emotional health, encouraging quotes to support their mental well-being. I want students to feel my classroom is a safe place to express any concerns.

Katelyn Masingale

2024-02-07 22:43:45 UTC

As previously mentioned in my post on Physical Environment, I want to make my classroom a place where students feel safe expressing their emotional concerns. I plan to include encouraging quotes, reminders, and affirmations. I want students to feel constantly reminded that the adults in their lives truly care about their emotional health as much as their physical health.

Other ways to provide a safe and secure environment can be celebrating the differences of cultures, religions, and languages in the classroom. Students want to feel seen and appreciated and I think this is a good way to provide a safe and secure environment.

Katelyn Masingale

2024-02-07 22:50:18 UTC

Showing you are a nurturing teacher is as simple as doing the little things. For example, showing up to after-school sporting events, showing interest in and incorporating interests in lessons, and giving small rewards or gifts (as small as snacks or stickers!). Reaching out to a student who may seem like they are struggling is important too. Showing that you are nurturing is really about being active in the students' lives.

Katelyn Masingale

2024-02-07 22:57:14 UTC

Often by secondary school, parents may not be as involved anymore. Often, the only thing they hear from the school is about behavioral issues. I want parents to feel comfortable communicating with me, and vice versa. One way to promote this relationship is by introducing myself either in person (parent-teacher night) or by email if not as early in the year as I can. Also, to send updates on their children to praise them for their work, or by keeping them updated on larger projects in which parents need help acquiring material for the student. From here the relationship between teacher and parent is more open and allows for more communication if volunteers are needed or any other involvement.

Back to school day

2024-02-10 04:01:08 UTC

school with community:

This would be an event for the teahers, students, and parents before the beginning of a new school year. The families would come to the school and have a cookout and have a fun day where they are all able to get to know each other and become familiar with the teachers.

Teachers with teachers:

Team building activities where they simply have gotten to know each other activities and are calming yet fun. ICE-BREAKERS.

Hall of Culture

2024-02-10 04:02:06 UTC

I would love to be able to have different school halls represent the different cultures represented in the area around our school's neighborhood. That way when we have a open house or a meet the teacher day, parents have the feeling of acceptance and belonging.

Class rules/ School Drills

2024-02-10 04:04:33 UTC

I think when we think security we think keeping the children inside the building safe. We have responsibility of those students when they are at school. However, it isn't simply about drills, students should feel safe in the classroom. Having expectations in the classroom where the students understand and feel as if it was a safe place is highly important. Class jobs and class rules keep structure. Therefore, I would have class jobs where student shave responsibilities and I would also have class rules where we create an atmosphere of respect.

Self Care Days

2024-02-10 04:07:04 UTC

Nurturing the teacher.... you!

It is important to take care of you because if you can't take care of you, you can't expect to take care of anyone else. I would have a designated day where the teacher, me, would have to take a day to herself, meaning that after work, there would be a day that I would make sure I was okay.

In today's world it is hard to not have the worry of what could potentially happen when at school. As teachers, it is our job to ensure that our students know the procedures when certain instances happen. It is also our job to ensure that they feel confident that we have their best interest in mind at all times.

One way to achieve the feeling of security within a classroom is providing students with an area they can go to when their emotions are too much. This is often referred to as a calm down corner or area. In this area you have encouraging quotes, stress relief toys, pillows, chairs, etc. that make the area comforting for them.

Back to School Night

2024-02-11 20:43:33 UTC

I think a great way for team building with the school is to have a back to school celebration each year. If it's possible, partner with a local business who could provide free snacks/desserts. There could be games in different parts of the building, like the library, music room, gym, etc. where students, parents, and staff could play different games, do different activities.

Back to School Night

2024-02-12 03:48:36 UTC

I like the idea of having students decorate their space as much as possible. If they have a desk then having them color their name tag or put washitape on the legs

2024-02-12 03:49:36 UTC

I have always liked the idea of having an anonymous question/concern box under lock and key where students can tell teachers questions and concerns about their lives, other classmates, the school, etc.

2024-02-12 03:50:37 UTC

I like the idea of having circle time where the students and teacher can get to know each other and create a connection, kind of like a team building town hall

2024-02-12 03:50:49 UTC

Class parties!!

2024-02-12 03:51:43 UTC

Having fall festivals/hoedowns/ big outdoor celebrations with the students